LATICS new boy Zaine Francis-Angol believes supporters are the secret to any successful side in the National League.

In the last two seasons the full-back has helped both Hartlepool United and Stockport County get over the line in their quest for promotion to the Football League.

And the 29-year-old says that on both occasions the backing they received from the fans was crucial.

Asked what it takes to be successful at this level, Francis-Angol said: "First of all a good manager, a quality group of players, but if you were to ask anyone about Hartlepool and Stockport one thing they have got in common is a fanbase as well.

"I think that fanbase behind you, pushing you, gives you that extra boost as well. But definitely that on top of a good manager and a great group of players with good chemistry between them."

With a club takeover imminent, stay-away fans are planning to end their boycott once the paperwork is processed, bringing an end to unpopular owner Abdallah Lemsagam's time at the club, along with his sporting director brother, Mo.

The pair have overseen two relegations in just over four years, leading to mass protests and demonstrations against the regime.

An as yet un-named business has come forward with a deal to buy the club, stadium and land, with the aim of completing on all fronts before the start of the season - possibly even in time for this weekend's home friendly with Wigan Athletic, to coincide with the 40th anniversary of Joe Royle's appointment as manager of Oldham Athletic, with his son, Darren, at the forefront of takeover negotiations.

And combined with John Sheridan at the helm and the new-look squad, Francis-Angol is encouraged by Latics' prospects collectively, as well as his own individual aspirations.

"He (Sheridan) is a good manager, he spoke about his style of play and I know a few players who have played with him before," he said.

"I'll come in and do my best for the club and hopefully achieve good things.

"I have high standards for myself in general but he wants an attacking full back, he wants me up and down the wing and he wants a solid defender and I can produce that for him."

Speaking to the club website, Francis-Angol added: "It's definitely a tough league to get out of. It's a tough old slog but it's do-able.

"You see a lot of teams throwing money at it, especially last season, and it wasn't enough to get over the line. So it's not always about the funding behind it, it's just about a good group of players and the chemistry between them.

"It's a really good group here.

"I look forward to a challenge every season and when it gets to the business end of the season you want to be up there competing for something and that's the aim."