Striker Chris O'Grady has left Athletic to join neighbours Rochdale after both clubs had agreed a fee. Since joining the Latics 18 months ago O'Grady has played under three different managers but failed to impress any of them enough to give him a starting spot in the team. He has spent most of his time on loan at Bury, Bradford and Stockport before moving to Rochdale for a three month loan period. O'Grady hit top form at the Dale and scored 12 goals in 21 games, helping them to the top of league Two.
Dale were desperate to keep the striker and it was rumoured that Derby County and Scunthorpe United were also showing an interest. O'Grady has signed a two and a half year deal for an undisclosed fee. An official spokesman for the Latics said, "The Club is very satisfied with the fee we've received for Chris, but Rochdale have requested that sum remains undisclosed and we will respect that request. We would like to thank Chris for his efforts at Boundary Park and wish him all the best for the future."