Former Forest boss Billy Davies linked with Oldham job

(Photo: Action Images via Reuters)

By Alex Beard

Oldham Athletic parted company with John Sheridan on Monday morning, and the search for a new manager has subsequently gathered pace.

And with the runners and riders for the position rapidly emerging, one shock name has made its way to the fore – former Nottingham Forest boss Billy Davies.

The controversial Scot had two spells at the City Ground, with his most recent spell with the club being his last post, which ended in 2014.

Davies has recently alleged that a ‘malicious PR campaign’ has cost him 17 managerial positions with Premier League, Championship and Scottish clubs over the past few years.

However, he has now been installed as the 2/1 favourite to take the vacant manger’s job at Boundary Park, ahead of other contenders like Alan Stubbs, Darren Ferguson and Pablo Correa.

The Latics have struggled mightily this season, languishing at the foot of the League One table until Tuesday night’s stunning 3-2 victory over promotion contenders Peterborough under caretaker boss Richie Wellens.

Despite Wellens’ initial success, the club could look to Davies’ more experienced hands. The 53-year-old took Derby to the Premier League in 2007, and also reached the second tier play-offs three times, twice with Nottingham Forest and once with Preston North End.

His appointment, while potentially tumultuous, could be the perfect thing to awaken the squad from its early season slumber – and reignite what was looking like a lost season.