 He scored his first goal with a free kick in a 2–1 loss at Chesterfield on 9 December.In his first season as a regular starter, Eardley made 41 appearances, scoring twice, as the "Latics" qualified for the League One play-offs, but were beaten by Blackpool at the semi-final stage.The following season Eardley cemented his place as an integral member of the Oldham defence and was named captain during Sean Gregan's absence.