David Unsworth is pleased with how his squad is taking shape ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

The players report back to Boundary Park on Monday with four new signings secured so far, along with two new deals for existing players Devarn Green and goalkeeper Mat Hudson.

And Unsworth is hopeful of adding at least one more new face before pre-season training begins on June 26.

Latics made a double swoop this week by bringing in Dan Ward from National League rivals Gateshead and Shaun Hobson from Southend United, adding to the earlier acquisitions of Josh Lundstram and Kurt Willoughby.

And Unsworth says he is close to having the squad he wants to start the new season with.

"We have a core group of 19-20 players. We probably need to get that up by two or three - three if I get what I want - and then we'll have a look at the loan market and we'll look at the squad then," said the Latics boss.

"We might wheel and deal a little bit there.

"But we're certainly in a much more healthier place than we were this time last year.

"I'd like to get at least one more in before Monday, two if we're really lucky, and then the third one over potentially the next couple of weeks.

"I know exactly who my targets are, so it's a case of so far so good."

After welcoming midfielder midfielder Ward and defender Hobson to the mix as free agents, Unsworth added: "I'm delighted that everything the owners, the board, Darren Royle have done so far.

"We're all working hard together behind the scenes and we're moving in the right direction."