OLDHAM will be boosted by the return of top scorer Rodney Jack for the visit of fellow strugglers Milton Keynes.

The 31-year-old missed the midweek Carling Cup win over Stoke City after getting stuck in traffic.

Boss Brian Talbot said: "That victory has given everyone a lift and we need more of the same tomorrow. The cup was a big game for us but this is even bigger and it is going to be another tough one.

"It is vital we beat teams below us if we are to climb the table.

"We have shown what we can do against a side from a higher level. Now we have to start performing like that in our league."

The Latics will give a late check to defensive strongman Will Haining who has been under treatment for a hamstring injury.

New Zealand international striker Chris Killen is likely to drop to the bench but midfielder Matty Appleby has a dead leg.

The Latics have won only one of their four games so far and skipper Dean Holden said: "We need to get going and look at tomorrow's game as the start of the season."

LAST SEASON: Different leagues.

KEY OPPONENT: Allan Smart - ex-Latics striker looking to prove a point.

PREDICTION: Oldham 2 MK 1 Tweet