Former United starlet signs for Dale
With preseason training due to start in the next few days, Dale have signed former Man United youngster Oliver Rathbone.
So what do we know about him?
* He's 19 years old and comes from Blackburn and he's primarily an attacking midfielder
* He was considered a little behind his peers physically at Old Trafford, but was kept on due to his work rate and desire
* He grabbed the headlines whilst playing for United's Under 18 side following a stunning 40 yard lob You can watch it on YouTube at
* He had a trial with Walsall earlier on this year
* The youngster has signed a twelve month contract at Spotland, which you would expect included a clause in the club's favour to extend for a year based on recent contracts.
* His Dad Mick made close to 400 appearances in the Football League in a career that took him to Birmingham, Blackburn, Preston and Halifax and is currently a coach with Blackpool
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