Rochdale manager Keith Hill has completed his first signing of the summer after purchasing Jason Kennedy from cash-strapped League Two outfit Darlington.

Kennedy, an academy graduate of Middlesbrough's youth system, made 53 appearances and scored five goals for Darlington last term. He has signed a two-year deal.

Hill told Rochdale's official website: "There has been a tremendous amount of effort in the negotiations but it has come to fruition with an excellent signing."

He added: "Jason has had offers from other clubs and could have hung on for longer but wanted to get the mental side of things settled and to prepare himself for a big season next time around.

"Jason is a very good football player, he is the right age, has a wonderful attitude and will give us great competition for places in a key area of the field."