Rochdale

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Midfielder Ryan East has committed his future to Rochdale by agreeing a new two-year contract.

East's old deal was due to expire next summer but has committed to the club until at least 2027.

East, 27, initially joined the National League side on loan from Bradford two years ago before making the move permanent in December 2023.

He told the club's website: "It's my third season here now. It's a building project that I want to be a part of.

"There's loads of positivity around the place now and hopefully that continues."

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Manchester United have launched an award in honour of former academy player Joe Thompson, who died in April aged 36.

Thompson played in the same United academy side as former England international and new Plymouth Argyle manager Tom Cleverley and Danny Drinkwater, who went on to win the Premier League title at Leicester City.

He was diagnosed with cancer for a third time last year.

Thompson retired in 2019 after a playing career that included 203 appearances for Rochdale, plus spells at Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Southport and Bury.

He returned to United to play a central role in the launch of the club's Academy Alumni programme, which offers aftercare to former academy players.

United said first winner of the Joe Thompson Award will be announced next week, adding: "It will be given each season to a player or staff member from our under-18s or under-21s who represents the values of a Manchester United person, like Joe did, displaying characteristics like resilience, honesty, integrity, humility, innovation and a relentless work ethic, with a focus on the community."

The club said the award is intended as a "lasting tribute" to Thompson, "whose story of courage, perseverance and positivity touched the hearts of fans all around the world".