The club today confirmed that Keith Hill was to return to Rochdale as replacement for John Coleman.

Even though there was something like eighteen hours between Coleman's dismissal and Hill's appointment, it still managed to be a rollercoaster few hours with Sky Sports doing their best to dampen the enthusiasm for the return of the man considered by many to be Dale's greatest ever manager.

But in the end, the smiles were back as it was announced that a deal had been struck for Keith Hill to be Dale manager until the end of the season. The expectation will be for Hill to return a smile to the faces of Dale supporters' faces after what has felt like a dreadul spell since he left for Barnsley.

It is expected that Hill will work alongside the current coaching staff of Chris Beech and Tony Ellis until the end of the season, when all parties will sit down and assess the situation.

Photo: Action Images

essexdale added 19:33 - Jan 23 meet the new boss, same as the old boss best news all season although did not expect it, i'm never sure about going back to the scene of past glories however you cannot help but be delighted about the return of the greatest manager in our history. also hill will have to deal with the weight of expectation from the fans myself included, we need to remember that last time he was in charge promotion was achieved after season upon season improvement and he has inherited most of the players. We have the backbone of decent side. a couple of smart loan signings and lets see where we go. If keith can work his magic again and find that ability to turn average players into great ones again then the future is looking bright again. UP THE DALE

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geraldo added 23:29 - Jan 23 Let's not forget that he has inherited a lot of dross who will all be on contract - he needs to offload Cav, Donnelly, McIntyre and perhaps Adebole, whilst Lillis is not the greatest keeper. It concerns me that Barnsley kept Flitcroft, who may well have been the real "magician" in Hillcroft. Time will tell.......................
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