McArdle blow ahead of Premiership visit

Photo: Jon Coluccio

Rory McArdle

The visit of Premier League side Everton to Spotland tomorrow (Saturday 18 July, kick-off 3pm) has been overshadowed by news of a lengthy injury lay off for Rochdale defender Rory McArdle.

The young centre-half badly damaged his shoulder during Wednesday night's friendly win over Radcliffe Borough and is certain to miss the start of the season.

Dale boss Keith Hill confirmed that McArdle would be out for at least eight weeks, and while Hill will explore every possible avenue to find defensive cover, his hands will be tied by budget constraints.

In the short term, Dale will seek cover in the form of either Marcus Holness or Craig Dawson for the Everton game. Dawson played the full game at former club Radcliffe, but Holness was forced off with a niggle after coming on to start the second half.

Hill is unlikely to rush Holness back into action with the Dale squad stretched so tight, while Jon Shaw and Ciaran Toner, who are suffering ear and dead leg injuries respectively, are likely to remain on the sidelines. Nathan Stanton played the second half at Radcliffe after overcoming a minor knee problem and is in line to start against Everton.

Dale fans may also get a first look at new goalkeeper Kenny Arthur, after Matt Edwards played the full game at Radcliffe. Trialists in the form of winger Nathan Woolfe and French striker Gomez, Wednesday night's goalscorer, may also be on display.

Everton are set to field some of their big names as their preparations for a season that will see David Moyes' side compete in the new Europa League gather pace. The FA Cup finalists are set to field the likes of England international Joleon Lescott and Australian striker Tim Cahill, while Louis Saha, Leighton Baines, Phil Neville, Leon Osman and Brazilian Manchester City loanee Jo all featured in a 2-1 defeat to Bury last week.

Dale are offering fans three for the price of two admission to their home friendlies against Everton, Manchester United and Blackpool. Prices for each friendly are £12 for adults and £6 for concessions but supporters have until 5pm this afternoon (17 July) to purchase their three for two tickets.