Dale Sign Cartwright

There was news from Spotland on Tuesday as Rochdale’s ranks were increased by two. Club captain Gary Jones is set to put pen to paper on a new deal whilst right-sided midfielder Lee Cartwright has been signed from Stockport.

Following the departures of Wayne Evans and Greg Heald, Parkin has been keen to add some experience to his young side in the summer transfer market. His hopes came to fruition with former Preston North End player Lee Cartwright being signed from Stockport. The 32 year old will fill the boots of Leo Bertos on the right wing, following the New Zealander’s departure at the end of last season. Cartwright, who has signed a one-year deal, signed for Stockport in January but was told the Hatters would not offer him a new contract this summer. Steve Parkin has been quick to take advantage in what looks to be an acute piece of business; in over 400 games for Preston, Cartwright always gave 100% and that is something that he will look to emulate for his new side. The Rochdale manager hopes to add more new faces shortly as he begins to build a squad, with a blend of both youth and experience, which is capable of success in the upcoming season.

Gary Jones looks set to enjoy two more years at the club, extending what is his second spell at the Dale. The battling midfielder, who chipped in with eight goals last term, was signed from Barnsley in February 2004 after his short stay with the Yorkshire outfit did not work out. Rochdale’s penalty taker will join Ernie Cooksey, Jamie Clarke and Neil Brisco in the battle for the centre-midfield places. Following an injury plagued pre-season a year ago, Jones will be hoping that he can stay away from the treatment table this time around as he bids to lead the team out for the first game in August.

When he signs the contract later this week, Jones will become the fourth player, out of the six that were offered contracts earlier in the summer, to remain at the club. Matt Gilks ended speculation that he may be performing at a higher level during the next campaign by signing a two-year contract. Experienced defenders Gareth Griffiths and Tony Gallimore will grace the Spotland turf for one more season after they impressed manager Steve Parkin in helping Dale to become one of the best defensive sides in the league last term. The club are also hoping that the two other out of contract players, Scott Warner and Neil Edwards, will sign up soon.