Crooks released by Rochdale

Ahead of Thursday's transfer deadline, Rochdale manager Keith Hill has continued his "shape shifting" with the news that Lee Crooks has left the club by mutual consent.

Crooks, 30, joined the club in August 2006 and made a total of 44 appearances although only five of those have come this season. His last first team game saw him in the starting line up at Macclesfield on the 29 December 2007.

Speaking to the Dale official website Crooks said: "I am not signing for another club. I now have time to myself, to concentrate on the charity walk in the summer and to weigh up my options for next year. I want to wish the lads all the best because they are a great bunch and deserve to succeed this year.

"Keith Hill and Flickers have always been honest with me and they have done a fantastic job. I leave with absolutely no hard feelings having enjoyed my time at what is a great club."

Crooks will be back at Spotland on 1 April, as Dale entertain Bradford City, when he and a group of volunteers will be collecting money ahead of his McMillan's Nurses charity climb of Mount Kilamanjaro.

A club spokesman said: "Everyone connected with Rochdale Football Club would like to wish Lee well, to thank him for his services to the club and to urge our supporters to give generously to him and his charitable work."

Date article online: 26/03/2008