Hogan returns to Dale

Scott Hogan, who can operate either as a centre-forward or as a winger, has agreed a two-year-deal with Rochdale, effective from 1 July

The move is a return to Spotland for Hogan who spent time with Dale’s youth team, before leaving in the summer of 2011.

Following his departure from Dale, he then went on to have a spells at Halifax Town, Stocksbridge, Ashton United and most recently Hyde FC.

Manager Keith Hill says securing the services of Hogan is a coup for the club: “This is a potential marquee signing. At the beginning of last season I took him into Barnsley with the possibility of signing him but that didn’t come to fruition.

“There’s definitely talent there and there’s an abundance of pace, ability and speed. When he was at the Football Club last time round he wasn’t ready for the demands of the professional game but I have followed his career closely and after sitting down with Scott he realises that he’s got a talent and wants to make the most of it.

“This is an excellent signing for the Football Club and I know as recently as last week he was training with a Championship Club, but he’s really got to cut his teeth in the Football League and when he does that I’m sure that bigger clubs will come calling and knocking on the door for his services.

“Being able to recruit him is a coup and I’m really pleased because he is a player I intend to play next season and he’ll hit the ground running.”