Former Preston North End striker Joe Garner has joined National League side Oldham Athletic on a deal until the summer of 2025.
Garner most recently turned out for League One strugglers Carlisle United and played a big part in their successful play-off campaign last season. With his minutes taking a significant knock in the third tier this season, the 35-year-old has today completed a move to the National League.
Somewhat of a journeyman, Garner has made appearances for a whole host of EFL sides, including the likes of Wigan Athletic Ipswich Town and Nottingham Forest amongst a number of others.
However he is most well-known for his time with both Carlisle and Preston making over 100 appearances for each of the two sides. With the latter, he would enjoy his best success in front goal, famously scoring 26 goals during the 2014/15 League One season and helping Preston to promotion to the second tier.
Although his best days are now behind him, Garner has still shown sparks of brilliance. It is fairly obvious that he will not replicate his 57 goals in 151 appearances during his time with the Lilywhites, but is a very experienced signing who will no doubt boost Oldham’s promotion chances.
The Latics are looking for a return to the EFL after a two-season hiatus and currently sit in sixth in the National League table. With four wins from their last five, they are a club going in the right direction and are expected to be battling it out amongst the best in the division for a place in League Two next season.
Speaking on the signing of the veteran striker to club media, manager Micky Mellon seemed thrilled to have a player with such experience in the building.
“We’re delighted to have Joe on board, he had other offers but he was very keen to be a part of what we’re doing here.”
“He has fantastic leadership qualities and experience at winning things, he knows the qualities that are needed in the dressing room.”
Garner seemed equally as excited to join the ambitious National League side.
“The way the manager spoke about the team and club, how huge it is, was a major part in me coming here, in addition to already knowing Muzza (Paul Murray).
“I just want to get started, helping the team get more wins and hopefully get us out of this league.”
Writer’s View
This is a move which shouldn’t go under the radar given Garner’s previous exploits in the EFL and it represents a great piece of business by Oldham. Though he may not be the force of old, the striker still managed three goals for Carlisle in League One this season.
His quality should see him notch plenty to his tally for the Latics and he could be one of the key men in their push for promotion. An 18-month contract gives him the security he probably wanted but nonetheless, Garner will be expected to give his all for the club in their quest for a return to League Two.
