Former Rangers winger Glenn Middleton has completed a permanent move to Rochdale from Doncaster Rovers.
The 26-year-old has signed a contract with the League Two club until the summer of 2027 after spending last season with Doncaster in League One.
Middleton made 35 appearances in the third-tier last term and now begins a new chapter with Rochdale as they look to build for the season ahead.
The winger said he was delighted to get the move completed after holding positive discussions with Rochdale head coach Ian Watson.
“I’m delighted to be here,” Middleton said.
“I had great first discussions with the manager. He’s very clear on what he has set out to do this season, and for that I’m looking forward to it.
“I like to be as direct as I can with the ball. I want to create chances for others and hopefully score a few myself.”
Rochdale boss hails ex-Rangers star
Watson believes Middleton's experience in both English League One and Scottish football will make him an important addition to his squad.
“Glenn’s got pace, experience and has performed really well in League One and in Scotland as well,” Watson said.
“He’s a huge signing for us, and we’re excited to get him in.
“He was one of the first players we looked at earlier in the summer, and we didn’t think it was going to be possible, so big credit to the Club for being able to get it done.”
Middleton's Rangers spell
Middleton was born in Glasgow but moved to the Northampton area with his family when he was young, subsequently spending time in Northampton Town's academy before joining Norwich City in 2012.
He progressed through the Canaries' youth system before returning to Glasgow in January 2018 to join Rangers, the club he supported as a youngster, he was signed by ex-Norwich youth coach Graeme Murty, who was interim boss at Ibrox at the time.
Middleton made his Rangers debut in July 2018 during a Europa League qualifier against FK Shkupi and played regularly that season under new boss Steven Gerrard.
“When people are going in from the training ground, he wants to stay out. I'm having to drag him in every single day,” said the Liverpool icon on the then youngster.
He went on to make 28 appearances across all competitions during the 2018/19 campaign before heading out on loan.
The winger had temporary spells with Hibernian, Bradford City and St Johnstone before leaving Rangers permanently in 2022 to join Dundee United.
Middleton played a key role in Dundee United's promotion back to the Scottish Premiership at the first attempt during his second season at Tannadice.
He subsequently returned to England last summer with Doncaster, making 46 appearances in all competitions as Rovers finished 14th in League One.
Now, Middleton has secured another move, joining Rochdale on a deal that runs until 2027.
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