Rochdale appoint Carl Forster as new head coach

Rochdale have appointed Carl Forster as head coach ahead of the 2019 season.

Forster joins the Hornets from Whitehaven, where he has been a player-coach for two seasons at the Recreation Ground.

The 26-year-old is a familiar face at the Crown Oil Arena, having made a number of dual-registration appearances during the 2013 League 1 campaign. He even featured in their play-off final win over rivals Oldham which saw Rochdale promoted to the Championship.

On his return to Rochdale, Forster said: “It is great to be back at Rochdale, I’d like to thank the board for giving me this great opportunity.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to be the coach of such a great club and I am excited for what the future holds. I can’t wait to get to work.”

Rochdale interviewed a number of candidates for the role which will has been left by Alan Kilshaw.

On the appointment of Forster, Hornets’ chairman Peter Rush said: “Upon meeting Carl, I was immediately struck by his outstanding enthusiasm and willingness to promote Rochdale at every opportunity.

“He has a real affinity with the club and a great knowledge of local players, and players who would like to play for him.

“He is a young, hungry coach with a bright future and I am happy that as a club we can facilitate his development.”