Stockport County manager Dave Challinor has revealed to the club’s official YouTube channel that Rochdale are keen to bring Cody Johnson back to the club.
The Hatters recalled the 19-year-old from his loan spell at the Crown Oil Arena earlier this week, however, the Greater Manchester club remain interested in launching a sensational return for the youngster.
The Oldham-born midfielder is highly thought of at Edgeley Park, having risen through the youth ranks to make six senior appearances for Stockport.
Following the recall, Johnson impressed the 2000 travelling fans to Hillsborough on Tuesday night, looking right at home up against Barry Bannan, as Dave Challinor’s side suffered a penalty shootout defeat at the hands of Sheffield Wednesday in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
The teenager linked up with Banbury United last season to gain experience in senior football, going on to play 20 times for the Puritans.
His performances piqued the interest of National League side Rochdale, and the green light was given to the move in June for a season-long loan deal at the Dale.
Frustratingly for manager Jimmy McNulty, his summer recruit was later recalled on Monday.
What’s been said?
Providing an update on the situation, the 47-year-old Stockport boss said: We’ll make a decision amongst the staff in terms of what the next plan is with him. We’ll speak to Rochdale because I know they’re still keen to have him back with them and if that’s the right thing to do then so be it.”
Writer’s View
The League Two side need to decide sooner rather than later what is best for Johnson’s development. If they cannot guarantee him minutes in England’s fourth tier, then surely a move back to Rochdale would be best for the youngster.
He is clearly highly thought of by Jimmy McNulty and the coaching staff at Rochdale, and it would provide a suitable step up from his previous loan spell at Banbury as the teenager continues his development, but the Hatters are risking stunting the growth of a player with a bright future if he sits on the bench each week.
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