MARTYN Ridyard, our latest re-signing, has described as ’exciting’ the current life and times of the Roughyeds, who expect to announce two more signings — both new ones — next week.
At the age of 36, and well aware that he is in the twilight of his long and illustrious career, Riddy is the ideal and archetypal ‘old head’ in a comparatively young squad.
“Last season was a learning curve for all of us,” he said, “and, despite what a lot of people think, we had a good season, although it’s fair to say we probably had more success off the field than on it.
“Next season will be another big challenge, but looking at the signings that have been announced already and in anticipation of others to come, I can say these are exciting times as we look forward to the new season.
“I’m made up to have signed again. I didn’t want to leave Oldham, which is a good club, a great club to play for and one which, as James Thornton said, is a real family club.”
Riddy doesn’t like talking about himself and he certainly doesn’t want to talk about that inevitable day when he will feel the time is right to put away his boots for the last time.
He said:
“I know it’s going to happen, but I’ve signed for another season and I’ll see how I feel then. I certainly couldn’t do a Tom Spencer, where everything is mapped out in advance.
“There are the odd times now when, on Monday mornings, I feel I’m 40, but I can honestly say that, most of the time, I feel kike I did when I was 21 and as long as that situation goes on, I’m good to go.
“I think I’ll know when it’s time to go and it isn’t yet, that’s for sure.”
Roughyeds have announced nine signings so far.
BACKS: Kian Morgan, Patrick Ah Van, Joe Hartley, Jordan Paga, Martyn Ridyard.
FORWARDS: Sean Slater, Callum Cameron, James Thornton, Emmerson Whittel.
