F A n F I L E

DEAN SMITH @ Rochdaleafccom

The big talking point among the

fans is the departure of legendary striker Ian Henderson to Salford. He was just a few goals short of the club’s all- time scoring record.

I won’t be happy unless we sign some forwards! At the time of press, I don’t think we have a recognised striker above the age of 19. Our most underrated player is

Jimmy Ryan, arguably our best player last season after a slow start. Look out for Peter Thomas. The midfielder became our youngest ever player last year, making his debut at just 15 years and 22 days. The player I’d happily drive to another club is Stephen Dooley. Undeniably talented, he goes missing far too often. Must do more.

The opposition player I secretly admire is Brett Pitman, depending on where he will end up after being released by Portsmouth. Incredibly intelligent and very dangerous, he always seems to score against us. The pantomime villain will be

Accrington manager John Coleman, who remains unpopular after his spell in the Dale dugout. Thankfully, we have a great record against him! The one change I’d make would be to the atmosphere at home games. It’s very quiet at times.

Save the date for Sunderland away. It always feels like a cup tie.

Did you know that next year will be our 100th as a Football League club – a remarkable achievement with a fanbase as small as ours.

Our key player will be Eoghan O’connell [ below]. He’s as important to our possession- based style as he is to our defensive efforts. The fans’ opinion of the gaffer is positive. Brian Barry- Murphy [ above] plays a passing game that is great to watch when it works, although his stubbornness to change it up has cost us at times. He’s learning. If he left, he should be replaced by somebody within the club. I like our direction, on the pitch at least. We’ll finish just above the drop. We need to replace Henderson’s goals and we’ll rely on the academy again, but I have faith in Barry- Murphy.