Hero Joe signs new Dale deal

●●Joe Thompson has agreed a new one-year deal at Rochdale after scoring the goal which preserved their League One status at the end of last season

JOE Thompson has extended his stay at Rochdale after agreeing a new deal at the club.

The 29-year-old, who was due to be out of contract this summer, has put pen to paper on a oneyear deal.

Thompson, who started his professional career at Dale after coming through the youth ranks, re-joined the club in August 2016 after a spell away.

Last season, Thompson made 11 appearances for the club, with his first of the campaign coming in December, just six months after being given the allclear following a second battle against cancer.

He rounded of a remarkable season in fairytale style, scoring the goal that kept Rochdale in League One.

“I’m over the moon to have signed a new deal”, said Thompson. “I remember the Gaffer saying to me at the end of the season, ‘you’ve climbed to the mountain top, so I bet you want to enjoy the view.’ And it’s like anything, you’ve got to take some time, evaluate and spend time with your family.

“I went away and I realised that I’m not done. I had opportunities to do other things, whether it be in media or in public speaking, but it’s every boy’s dream to play football, so why give it up?

“All I have ever done is football since I left school. I also feel that I’ve maybe not reached my potential yet, because I’ve always had the reins on or being playing catch-up, so I’m excited for the future and I can’t wait to get back out there - I’m raring to go for pre-season.” Published by MEN Media, Mitchell Henry House, Hollinwood Avenue, Chadderton, OL9 8EF. Printed by Reach Printing Services (Oldham) Limited, Hollinwood Avenue, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 8EB