Stones Signs Again

Oldham Athletic are delighted to announce the signing of Josh Stones on loan until 2 January.

The 20-year-old re-joins the club after impressing on loan in December 2023, scoring three goals in four games before injury cut short his spell.

Stones began his career with Guiseley, where he was selected for England Schools, which earned him a move to Wigan Athletic.

He joined Ross County on loan in January 2023, playing six games in the Scottish Premiership earning some vital experience.

On joining once again, Stones said: “I’m delighted to be back, it’s been a long time coming.

“Once I heard of Oldham’s interest, there was only one place I wanted to come, it’s taken a bit of time but now I’m here I can’t wait to hit the ground running.

“I loved my time here last time which was a huge factor in me signing, the fans were unbelievable and I enjoyed my football.

“The fans and the manager were both huge factors, but being able to come here and get minutes it was a no-brainer.”

After impressing for Wigan’s youth team, he signed an extended three-year deal in July 2023, which will continue until the summer of 2026.

The striker scored his first goal for the club in a 7-1 victory against Leicester City’s academy in the EFL Trophy.

Stones’ was in and around the matchday squad but for more game time in December 2023 he joined Latics’ on loan until 12 January 2024.

On his debut, he impressed the Latics faithful by scoring and assisting against Solihull Moors in a 3-2 win on the road.

He made four appearances in his short loan spell, further goals followed against Hartlepool United both away and at home before a long-term injury ended his impressive start to life in a Latics shirt.

This season Josh has made six appearances for Wigan, scoring once in the EFL Trophy. But with limited game time, Latics have swooped once again for the popular striker.

Manager Micky Mellon was delighted to get his man: “It’s been something we’ve wanted to do for a while, we’ve had to be patient but we’re excited to have him back,” he said.

“Josh is an exciting player with a great attitude, he’s a player who’s very good at playing the way we want to play.

“He’s buzzing to be back, he’s a popular guy amongst the squad so we’re delighted to get him in.

“Josh is hungry to play football and that’s what we want here, players that are eager to play for this club and drive to where we want it to be.”

Josh will wear the number 24 shirt.

Welcome back, Josh!