Josh Hawkes has arguably made the strongest case ahead of today's visit of Cheltenham Town, after making an immediate impact from the bench in the EFL Trophy tie against Leeds United Under-21s.

Hawkes needed only minutes to make his mark in Tuesday night's 4-2 victory, scoring one and creating another as Latics returned to winning ways.

With Oldham searching for greater attacking output in recent weeks, Brabin admitted the performance of several fringe players had given him and manager Micky Mellon food for thought for the next game.

"Yeah, I think so, because we're crying out for goals and we scored four," he said of Tuesday night's win.

"I don't think anyone's a million miles away from the team anyway, the lads have been training well and there are a few who probably count themselves unlucky not to be starting."

Brabin believes Tuesday's result helped restore confidence after a difficult spell, while fostering competition throughout the squad.

"Up until the last couple of weeks we've been pleased with our performances, just felt that we needed to put the ball in the back of the goal," he said.

"But that hasn't happened. There was possibly a bit of nervousness about us and they looked a little bit low on confidence in the performance on Saturday (against Accrington Stanley), but there were a lot of positives in terms of keeping a clean sheet, stopping the rot of getting beat and we've backed that up with a win.

"That's how we try to work, as well as what we're doing day to day on building the confidence in the squad going into the next league game."

Of Hawkes' contribution, Brabin added: "He's come on and done really well and scored another good goal.

"He's another one who'll be banging on the door."

The former Tranmere man was made available for transfer during the summer, despite scoring five goals in 29 appearances last season and having another year left on his contract.

The 27-year-old has been limited to just three appearances, in all competitions, so far this season, but Brabin says he deserves credit for his determination.

"He was made available in the summer but we certainly haven't tried to force anyone out," he added.

"Josh has come back, he wants to fight for his place and I think there is more of an opportunity certainly with the long-term injury to Jack Stevens.

"He's probably seen an opportunity where he can play.

"We just want everyone to turn up and show us what they're capable of and we'll pick what we think is the best team."