With their promotion and title hopes in their hands, Rochdale have added further quality to their squad.
Dale are sitting pretty at the top of the National League. They are currently two points ahead of York City, having played two games fewer than their nearest competition.
James McNulty’s side are currently on a six-game win streak and look set to return to the Football League next season.
Not looking to slow down any time soon, McNulty has added another player to his side, with Ed Francis joining from Exeter City.
Rochdale Sign League One Midfielder Francis
On their website, Rochdale confirmed Francis has joined the club on a two and a half year deal.
The 26-year-old will be dropping two divisions from League One to help Rochdale with their title challenge.
Speaking to the club, Francis said:
“I’m absolutely thrilled. As soon as I heard the interest was there, it was something I wanted to get done.
“It feels like a long time coming, it was two years ago when we first spoke and I believe everything happens for a reason.
“I’ve seen a few familiar faces which is nice and I know it’s going to be exciting.
“Hopefully I can bring a bit of experience to the boys that are already flying.”
Further Quality in Midfield
The English midfielder will add further quality to Rochdale’s midfield. Last season, he played 42 times in League One for Exeter City, which included 34 starts. His displays received an average rating of 6.88 from Sofascore.
Francis led the Exeter team for assists last season with six in total. He also had the second-highest key passes per match average, with 0.7.
This season, he has found game time difficult to come by. Despite his output in the last campaign, he has started just twice and made seven substitute appearances.
What will likely really catch the eye of Dale fans is his performances the last time he played in the National League.
Francis played 40 games and received an average rating of 7.35. He finished that campaign with three goals and four assists while representing Gateshead.
If he can replicate that kind of form for Rochdale, he could be the final piece in their hunt for the National League title.