Carlisle United's rivals Oldham Athletic have been put up for sale by unpopular owner Abdallah Lemsagam.

The Latics supremo last night announced that he was seeking to "pass on" the club to a new regime.

It followed a long campaign by fans of the EFL's bottom club against the running of the club by Lemsagam.

And it also came as shocking reports emerged that Lemsagam and brother Mo, Oldham's sporting director, had been sent letters with bullets in the envelopes.

Fan groups have condemned the letters which, reported Sky Sports, warned that the owner should sell the club or his family will "need to watch" their backs.

Oldham supporters have consistently protested against the Lemsagam ownership this season.

Travelling fans displayed banners calling for the owner to go when Oldham visited Brunton Park for a 0-0 draw in October.

In yesterday's club statement, Lemsagam said: "I can see that my ownership has caused unrest within the club and the fans.

"I want the best for the club and I think the best for the club is that it is now passed on to new owners.

"My team is speaking to certain credible bidders and I am happy to speak to others."

He also asked fans to get behind the team despite their concerns with the ownership.

Oldham are four points adrift of safety after a dismal campaign which include the departure of former Carlisle United boss Keith Curle.

Selim Benachour remains in caretaker charge. Lemsagam said that, in the short term, "I am now focused on improving the squad to fight the relegation battle we are now in."

Carlisle are now seven points above the Latics with a game in hand.