Roughyeds confirm departures

As preparations for the 2027 season gather pace, Oldham can confirm a number of departures from the squad.

Alan Kilshaw’s men enjoyed their highest league finish since 1997 before reaching the play-off semi-finals for the first time since 2001, marking another significant milestone in the Roughyeds’ progress.

Matty Ashurst, Jake Bibby, Cole Geyer, Sam Littler, Adam Milner, Ewan Moore, Morgan Smith, Emmanuel Waine and Jack Walker will leave when their contracts expire, joining Josh Drinkwater and Iain Thornley, whose departures have already been announced.

Ashurst and Bibby both enjoyed prolific seasons, scoring 16 and 17 tries respectively, with the latter finishing as Oldham’s leading try-scorer.

Geyer quickly became a fan favourite with his explosive running from dummy-half, while Milner made 60 appearances across his two seasons at the club. Moore, who joined alongside Geyer, added six tries in 16 appearances.

Littler marked his Oldham debut with a try before spending time on loan at Keighley and North Wales, while Waine made three appearances for the Roughyeds before joining Keighley on loan.

Away from the playing squad, Roughyeds assistant coach Martin Elswood and head of performance Andrew Dixon will each depart the club.

Head coach Alan Kilshaw said:

"Everyone at Oldham would like to thank the players and staff leaving the club for their commitment, hard work and contribution during their time at the club.

They have been part of a fantastic period for the club, helping us achieve our highest league finish in nearly 30 years and compete strongly throughout the campaign. While we fell short of our ultimate goal, the progress made, the standards set and the memories created are something everyone involved can be proud of.

With a salary cap coming into effect, and the club determined to operate with a budget that reflects what is affordable and sustainable, we have had to make some difficult decisions. That is the reality of professional sport, and these decisions have not been taken lightly.

We would like to thank everybody for the role they have played in that journey and for the effort they have given to the club, their teammates and our supporters.

We wish them all the very best for the next chapter of their careers and every success in the future.”

Supporters can expect more signing announcements in the days and weeks to come.