Football: Aaron Wilbraham joins Rochdale

Aaron Wilbraham joins Rochdale AFC

Rochdale Football Club have signed the experienced forward Aaron Wilbraham.

The 38-year-old, who has clocked up over 550 career appearances, has signed a one-year deal.

Most recently at Bolton Wanderers, Wilbraham netted the goal that kept the Trotters in the Championship at the end of the 2017/18 campaign.

His previous clubs also include Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Norwich City and Hull City.

During a career that has stretched over 20-years, Wilbraham has played in all four divisions – Premier League, Championship, League One and League Two, and has scored in every division. With the exception of Wanderers, who he saved from relegation, he has been promoted with every team that he has played for.

Wilbraham said: “It was great to keep Bolton’s Championship status, but I’m now looking forward to moving onto a new chapter with Rochdale.

“Rochdale is a team that I feel like I’ve played against hundreds of times. I’ve also got loads of friends who have played for the club so I know a bit about it, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience here and being part of the team.

“The manager has been a big factor in why I have joined here. After speaking to him and meeting with him, I just knew straight away what kind of guy he was, so it is good to link up with him.

“I’m also pleased to have signed in time for pre-season. It’s important to get involved as early as possible, to meet all the lads and to get to know all the new faces. It’s also important to get a good pre-season under our belts and look forward to the new season together.”