Holden: "It Is Important That The Players Are Aware Of How Important Tomorrow Is."

First team manager Dean Holden has drilled in the importance of getting a result from tomorrow's derby day game with Rochdale.

With both sides tasting victory at the weekend, Holden recalled his derby day experiences and believes tomorrow will be a good game for his players.

He said: "I've played for both teams. When I was at Rochdale, Oldham came and filled one side of the ground and it was a great atmosphere. It was probably the one that stands out the most for me.

"It is important that the players are aware of how important tomorrow is. Players come in on loan from different clubs and it is important they have a touch of history with the club and they realise what a big game it is. Our motivation will be to continue Saturday's result and make sure we take it forwards now.

"There is a real sense of optimism around again and hopefully there will be a few more supporters turn up on the back of a good win on Saturday. It will be a good atmosphere and Rochdale will bring a good following as well so it's one that we are all looking forward to.

"We have had one good result and we aren't getting carried away but we know what another three points can do for our season. They have had a great season and fair play to Keith Hill, Brian Barry-Murphy and Chris Beech, they are good mates of mine and they have had a great season already.

"Recently they have had a bad run of results but they have turned it around and they are on a good run themselves so it will be a good occasion."

Holden gave an injury update ahead of the game. "Dominic [Poleon] will train this morning and we will see how he is after the session.

"Joel is struggling a little bit after picking up a knock during Saturday's game. Jake [Kean] has been back to Blackburn for the last couple of days to be assessed and he is back today so we will see how he is."

The game between the pair earlier in the season saw Latics prevail 3-0 victors in front of over 3,000 travelling supporters and is hoping that atmosphere will continue into tomorrow's game.

"When they are all together, like they were on Saturday, it doesn't half make a difference," Holden admitted. "Even during the warm up when there are quite a few in the stadium, they are enjoying their day out and it makes a big difference.

"It is important that the players lift them, like they did on Saturday, and hopefully we can start the game and the fans can get right behind us and make it a great evening."

Watch the full interview on Latics Player.