Former Rangers and Nottingham Forest star in contract 'discussions' with EFL club aged 38 as new deal eyed
The striker has played a for a number of clubs including Rangers, Nottingham Forest and more.
A former Rangers and Nottingham Forest star could extend his career until his 39th birthday as he enters future talks with an EFL club.
Oldham Athletic have released their retained list after finishing 10th in League Two this season. Amongst the players said to be ‘in discussion’ over an extended stay at Micky Mellon’s side is Joe Garner, the 38-year-old striker who’s been with the club since 2024. Garner came through the Blackburn Rovers academy before joining Carlisle United.
He made his senior breakthrough and clinched a seven-figure move to Nottingham Forest. After three years there, he’s featured for the likes of Watford and Preston North End amongst others, spending between 2016/17 at Rangers. Garner netted 10 times in 34 Rangers outings, playing 30 times overall for Oldham this term, with three strikes.
What have Oldham said about players leaving?
Mellon said in a club statement: “I want to thank all of the players, both those staying and those moving on, for the part they’ve played in what has been an excellent first season back in the EFL. The progress we’ve made as a group has been clear for everyone to see and that’s down to the hard work, commitment and togetherness of every player throughout the campaign.
“I also want to place on record my thanks to the players who are leaving the club this summer and thank them for their contributions to the journey we have been on together. I’d like to make a special mention of Tom Conlon, Jake Caprice and Kian Harratt. These three players have made a significant contribution to the progress of our football club, and particularly to the achievement of restoring the club’s EFL status.
“They have played key roles in changing the course of Oldham Athletic history and will always be remembered by everyone connected to the club. We thank them, we wish them well and they always be welcome back in the knowledge that they have a special place in the history of our club.”
What did Joe Garner say about Rangers?
Speaking on why he moved to Rangers from Preston, Garner said previously: “It was a really tough decision. I didn’t really want to leave. A bid came in from Rangers and the club were happy to take the money. It was a massive opportunity for myself, to go up there and play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
“I really enjoyed my time up there and it is what it is. I spoke with the manager and the club and it kind of suited all parties in the end. Like I say, I was umming-ahing what to do. The chance to go up there, play in front of 50 thousand every week, and in Old Firms, was something I couldn’t turn down in the end. It’s one of those things. Jordan Hugill started playing a lot more and they ended up selling him for £7/8m, so it worked out for the club really well. He was younger than me and managed to score a few goals.”
The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly