James Norwood’s Oldham Athletic future is uncertain as the veteran forward remains without a contract offer following the club’s promotion back to the EFL.
The 34-year-old forward, who joined from Barnsley last summer, played a pivotal role in Oldham’s rise from the National League, finishing as the club’s top scorer in 2023/24 despite an injury-hit campaign. A purple patch between mid-October and mid-December saw him net seven goals in nine matches, putting him on course to trigger a one-year extension clause. However, with injuries halting that momentum, he finished short of the 15-goal threshold required.
Despite being named among those in discussions about their futures on Micky Mellon’s retained list, Norwood is yet to hold any talks with the club. While players returned to pre-season training this week, Norwood’s visit to Boundary Park was brief—reportedly to collect his boots.
Interest From Elsewhere As Norwood Signals Intent
The striker, who previously achieved back-to-back promotions with Tranmere Rovers under Mellon, has made clear his desire to remain at Oldham and contribute to another push in League Two. However, sources suggest no offer is currently on the table.
Norwood is attracting interest from League Two rivals Fleetwood Town, Barnet, and Chesterfield. Yet those close to the situation say money is not his motivation—his focus remains on staying fit and competing at the highest level possible for as long as he can.
A recent Instagram story appeared to make a pointed statement about longevity in sport, referencing elite athletes like Eliud Kipchoge, Novak Djokovic, and Cristiano Ronaldo thriving well into their 30s and beyond. The post read:
“Clubs who think outside the box will thrive. Because others are too scared to think differently… Unlocking performance is an art form. That kind of mastery doesn’t happen overnight.”
After Latics returned to pre-season, Norwood also shared a selfie tagged at Barry’s Bootcamp UK with the caption “Staying ready”—a nod to his ongoing personal preparation, even without clarity on his next move.
Writer’s View
This is a curious situation for Oldham Athletic. Norwood is a proven EFL striker, a fan favourite, and someone who clearly still has the hunger to compete. While his injury record last season was a concern, his contribution when fit was significant—both in terms of goals and leadership.
For a newly promoted side with ambitions of consolidation or progression, not even opening talks with someone of his pedigree seems shortsighted. If Norwood does move on, especially to a League Two rival, Latics fans might just wonder what might have been.
