Mellor’s the right fit for Dale gaffer
JIM Mcnulty insists newest recruit D’mani Mellor has all the attributes he looks for in a forward player.
The 23-year-old has returned to the club on loan from Wycombe Wanderers for the remainder of the season.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at the Crown Oil Arena and the head coach saw qualities in the former Manchester United youngster that stood out.
“I am delighted to have secured the return of D’mani Mellor on loan,” said Mcnulty.
“It was a good opportunity when it was presented to us. D’mani has the attributes and qualities that we look for in a player, in an area of the pitch that required reinforcement.
“He produces good versatility and tactical understanding, with the ability and willingness to play in any of the attacking positions.
“D’mani has already demonstrated to me last season, as a teammate and during my period as Interim Head Coach, to possess the values that are aligned with those that matter most to this team. He is highly regarded by his teammates, and he always puts the team first.
“We believe our current environment will enable D’mani to reach the potential that we all believe he possesses, and kickstart what has been a stuttering season for him thus far.
“D’mani can play an important part in helping the team achieve its ambitions this season. Staff and players alike are delighted to see him return and we are very much looking forward to working with him.”
Meanwhile, Michael Afuye has joined Northern Premier League Premier Division side Guiseley AFC.
The winger joins them on loan until the end of the season. Afuye joined Dale in the summer from Northern Premier League Division One West side Avro, having impressed in a trial period with Mcnulty’s men.
He has made nine appearances, including seven from the substitute’s bench, for Dale this season.
“Mikey has joined Guiseley now for the remainder of the season,” said Mcnulty. “It is a loan move that will enable him to continue his development by getting more regular game time.
“We’ll be keeping tabs on his progress and wish him the best of luck during his time there.”
D’mani Mellor could be in line for his second Dale debut on Saturday, when Dale welcome Wealdstone to the Crown Oil Arena. ●●THE upcoming Fans’ Forum, originally due to take place later this month, has been rescheduled.
Following discussions with the Dale Trust, the Forum will now take place on Thursday 29th February.
The meeting between representatives of the Board of Directors and the Trust has been brought forward to Thursday
25th January, the original date of the Fans’ Forum.
The switching of the two meetings allows the Club and Dale Trust to keep our commitment to the schedule of meetings between the two, which was announced in June last year.
Further details on the rescheduled Forum will be announced in due course.