Midfielder Clark Keltie has left Spotland "by mutual consent", with speculation of a return to Darlington in the next few days.

It is believed that Keltie was awarded a second year in his contract after playing a set number of games in that first season, but it was to be a second season which only existed contractually as far as Dale were concerned.

His last game for Dale came in April 2009 and he was transfer listed during the Summer. However, a lack of interest in his services ensured that he began the season still at Spotland, but he was nowhere to be seen in terms of first team action.

A loan spell at Chester went well for the Newcastle born midfielder, but ongoing financial issues at the Deva Stadium prevented that loan spell reaching a third month, but no soon as he arrived back, he was off again this time with Gateshead his destination.

The move back to the North East was not a successful one, as Gateshead cut short his loan spell after three games, citing a lack of commitment from Keltie. It was suggested at the time that Keltie was in the process of securing a release from his contract at Spotland before finding a new club. Speculation will undoubtedly link Keltie with a return to Darlington.

It was a shame for all parties that Keltie did not work out at Spotland. At times he showed himself to be a fantastic passer of the ball, with a talent for doing so way beyond this division.

Unfortunately, consistency was always the issue, and I remember describing Keltie early in his spell as having the ability to be the man of the match and the worst player on the pitch, all in the same game.

So it's pastures new for Keltie, but more importantly for ourselves, some precious funds have been freed up with the January transfer window around the corner.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters