Ian Watson has confirmed two key players are back in training ahead of Rochdale's key local derby against Oldham. The head coach said Laurence Maguire and Cian Hayes have both returned to the squad after injury layoffs, improving the team's availability for Saturday's match at the Crown Oil Arena.

Watson said the players understand the significance of the fixture for the club's supporters. "It’s been really good, I think all the boys understand what a huge game it is and what a big moment it is for the supporters as well," he said. The team has had three full days of preparation, with Watson emphasising the need for the right mental state to face an Oldham side that will be reacting to a recent loss.

"We’re expecting the very best version of Oldham, they’ll want to react to their loss last week," Watson added. He acknowledged that Oldham possess players who can influence the game in key moments, but stressed his own squad is in a better position than last week. The return of Maguire and Hayes is timely for a Rochdale side that sits 24th in League Two with just four points from six games. Their recent form reads one win, one draw and three defeats from the last five outings, leaving them with a points tally well below their target of 15 points from the first ten matches.

Watson praised the players who have stepped in during the injury crisis for giving everything. He said the club has a lot of talent and is improving gradually, with hopes that more players will return in the coming weeks. The squad for the Oldham game is largely the same for availability, but the two returnees provide a welcome boost. Rochdale's last result was a 0-0 draw away at Walsall, a point that halted a run of defeats.

This derby represents a major opportunity for Watson's team to build momentum ahead of their next fixture, which is a trip to face Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium on Tuesday night. The full interview with the head coach is available on the club's official YouTube channel. Fans can check the team's upcoming fixtures and view the current standings on the club site. The match kicks off at the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday.

More detail at Rochdale AFC