Kilkenny had a loan spell at Oldham during the 2004/05 season

The deal had been put on hold after the Blues pulled out of a �3m deal to sign another midfielder, Hossam Ghaly from Tottenham, the previous week.

But after Bruce signed Johan Djourou from Arsenal, former Arsenal trainee Kilkenny, 21, has now joined the Latics on loan until 1 January.

Kilkenny played in Saturday's 2-1 victory over Swansea at Boundary Park.

He is also eligible to turn out for John Sheridan's side in the Carling Cup.

Kilkenny previously spent a six-month spell with Oldham during the 2004/05 season.

He made 25 appearances for the Blues in the 2005/06 Premiership campaign, but started just two games last season.