Oldham manager John Sheridan has turned ugly to haul his team back into play-off contention.

The former Republic of Ireland international was a cultured midfielder during his playing days, but a less stylish approach has helped Oldham, who visit Albion on Saturday, climb back up the table.

Since last month's home draw with Albion they have lost twice in seven matches in League One.

A 3-0 victory against Yeovil at Boundary Park last Saturday lifted them to tenth, six points outside the play-offs with a game in hand.

Sheridan said: "We all know I want to play football, but sometimes to get results you have to do the ugly things which are effective.

"In our division Nottingham Forest are a prime example, because they aren't the best football team, but they keep picking up points.

"When you look at the table we've got a chance, so a run of three or four wins would get us pushing the sides above us.

"They will start looking at our results and thinking we are going to catch them and that might reflect on their performances.

"As long as we win enough games we've got something to aim for, so the players should keep believing in themselves.

"It won't be easy and we might have to rely on others, but Tranmere are showing at the moment you can get up there with a decent run."