Sheridan admits next term is key

John Sheridan knows he needs a successful season

Oldham Athletic boss John Sheridan has conceded that the 2008/09 season will be critical in his managerial career.

"Next year is a massive season for me," he told BBC Radio Manchester. "I've been here two years. Not many managers stay in a job more than two years.

"I'm not stupid. I've been around a long time and I know I have to improve myself and my team.

"We want to come back fitter and stronger and I want better players coming in."

Sheridan added: "I've arranged all my pre-season games against stronger opposition already.

"And one thing I will be trying my hardest at next season is to improve this young team and help improve a squad of 21 or 22 so that there is competition for places.

"We're going to be in over the summer with individual players coming in during their time off. We are going to do lots of things differently."