Dooley departs for Rochdale

COLERAINE FC can confirm that winger Stephen Dooley has joined League One outfit Rochdale…

The winger returned to the Bannsiders for a third spell in January 2018 and helped the Stripes clinch European football, as well as the Irish Cup for the first time since 2003. Overall, the Portstewart man has made 89 appearances for his hometown club, scoring 13 goals in the process.

Dooley will link-up with The Dale after agreeing a two-year deal with Keith Hill’s side, who retained their League One status last season.

Coleraine boss Oran Kearney paid tribute to Dooley and wished the 26-year-old all the best for his spell in English football.

“As a club we are delighted for Stephen to clinch a move to full-time football,” Kearney said.

“It is great that we played a part in Stephen achieving his dream and he certainly goes with our best wishes.

“We can’t speak any higher of him and we wish him the best of luck.”