Donervon Daniels has told iFollow that he’s pleased to have had the opportunity to join Rochdale.
The towering 23-year-old, who can operate comfortably in a number of positions, completed the move to Dale on a season-long loan from Wigan Athletic on deadline day.
He’s no stranger to the demands of the division, having played nearly every league game for the Latics when they were promoted as champions from League One to the Championship in 2016.
“When I knew that Keith Hill was interested in bringing me to the club, I rung around a few of the boys that I knew who had played here. After speaking to them, I just really wanted to get on and work under him, and to continue my development under him.
“He’s a character of a manager and he’s got a great relationship with his players, which is something I like. He’s someone I want to learn from and work well under.
“I’m really happy to have had the chance to come here and I’m also really looking forward to the opportunity of getting regular first team football in a league that I well know well and have been promoted out of.”
After joining Dale on Thursday afternoon, Daniels travelled with the squad to Southend on Friday and made his debut in the goalless draw at Roots Hall the following day, after coming on a second half substitute.
“It was really nice to get on the pitch and contribute towards what was a really strong performance from the boys. It was a good away point.
“I had played three 90 minute games for Wigan this season, but it was good to be on the pitch representing Rochdale on Saturday.
“I thought all the boys were fantastic and I thought the backline defended well and handled Southend’s threats. The goalkeeper also did really well with the penalty save. It was a good performance and every man was pleased.”
Daniels completed his first training session with the squad on Monday and has a full week on the training pitch with his new team-mates ahead of Saturday’s League One against Blackburn Rovers.
“I’ve had a really good conversation with the Gaffer about how he plays and how he wants me to contribute to the team. I believe each day is an opportunity to really get to know the boys in the dressing room and on the training pitch, and for them to get to know me, so it’s a week I’m looking forward to.”
Watch the full interview on iFollow.