Thursday 15 March 2012 18:58, UK
Oldham boss Paul Dickov believes Matt Smith's loan stint at Macclesfield will be vital in the player's development.
Striker Smith joined the Silkmen on loan until the end of the season having only started four times in 35 appearances for Latics this term. The 22-year-old moved to Boundary Park from non-league outfit Solihull Moors last summer and Dickov is confident he will be a success at League One level. "For his football progression, Matt needs to play and have a run of games," the manager told his club's official website. "It will do him the world of good and also toughen him up. "It was always the plan this season for him to go out and get a run of consecutive games. "Matt is a great kid and I believe there is something there and he will score goals. He just needs to become more streetwise and toughen himself up."