Nicknamed 'Evil' because of his robust style of play, 21 year-old Lee McEvilly is a firm favourite amongst the Spotland faithful.  A centre-forward with a near 1 in 2 ratio, McEvilly uses his broad physique very well, and can play as either a target man or as an out-and-out striker. 

McEvilly was bought for £15,000 in December 2001 from non-league Burscough by then manager John Hollins - incidentally Hollins now acts as McEvilly's agent - his debut came as a substitute in the 4-1 defeat at Kidderminster Harriers a week after signing. However, his non-stop style of play soon saw him attract the attention of club's in higher divisions when he became a regular in the first-team.

Last season was McEvilly's first full season as a professional, and he ended it as the club's leading goalscorer with 19 goals in all competitions.  This included goals for Northern Ireland Under 21s who he featured for regularly. 

McEvilly also became the Rochdale's first International when he represented Northern Ireland against Spain in April 2001 just five months after playing non-league football.

This season has seen Lee struggle to hold down a regular place in the starting line-up.  The appointment of Steve Parkin saw McEvilly criticised for not being fit enough to play league football, and after a lengthy fitness regime, he was sent out on-loan to non-league Accrington Stanlley.  Out of contract in the summer, he faces a very important couple of months.