Mayo goalkeeper makes a move to National League outfit

Wrexham have announced that goalkeeper Luke McNicholas will join Rochdale on a season-long loan.

The Belcarra native, who has a contract with Wrexham until 2026, aims to gain more first-team experience with the National League side.

The former Republic of Ireland youth international initially joined Wrexham on loan from Sligo Rovers last season.

He secured a permanent move in January and has since made three appearances in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy.

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson commented on the loan decision, stating: "It’s the right time for Luke to go out and play. He’s trained really well with us and had a few first-team games for us last season.

"We feel that for his development, he is ready to go and play, and I’m sure he will be a very good signing for Rochdale."

Regarding the move, McNicholas said: “During the summer I heard word of it, and it instantly got me excited. The way the gaffer wants to play I think will suit me down the ground.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to come and play. The club wants to go in the right direction and that was another pull for me.

“I feel like I’m comfortable on the ball and playing out from the back. I like to make big saves, come for crosses and dominate my box. I think my style of play will suit the team.

“I want to play as much as possible and get as many games as I can under my belt, and be successful here.”

The Rochdale head coach, Jimmy McNulty, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Luke into the group. He is very highly thought of at Wrexham and comes with great character references.

“Luke is a good goalkeeper with good shot-stopping ability and distribution, which is why Wrexham paid a fee to sign him.

“From the off, Luke showed a real hunger and desire to make the move happen, which is really important to us.

“We’re confident he will be a great fit for the group and look forward to working with him.”

McNicholas had his first day of training at Rochdale yesterday (Monday) and said he is looking forward to having plenty more of it.

“I want to play as much as possible, get as many games as I can under my belt, and be successful here,” he said.

“I played quite a bit back in Ireland and that’s where I got most of my games clocked up, but I think those experiences will help me in my new challenge.

“I can’t wait to get going. It’s a feeling I’ve missed, not playing week in, week out. I can’t wait to get that buzz back and be playing first team football again.”

With McNicholas' departure on loan, Wrexham signed for Plymouth Argyle netminder Callum Burton on a deal until the end of the 2025/26 season.