Rochdale retire Thompson's number 15 shirt

Joe Thompson worked in the media as a pundit and as a motivational speaker following his retirement

Rochdale have retired their number 15 shirt in honour of Joe Thompson.

The National League club's former midfielder died at the age of 36 in April after being diagnosed with cancer for the third time a year ago.

He made 203 appearances for the Greater Manchester side across three spells before having to retire in 2019.

The club said Thompson "became synonymous with the number 15 in his time with us".

They added: "The retirement of Joe's former squad number is recognition of his impact, not just as a talented football player, but as an incredible person who had a positive impact on everyone who has been touched by his story."

The former Manchester United trainee was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 and again in 2017.

But, after twice being given the all-clear, he notably went on to score the goal which helped Dale avoid relegation from League One in 2018.

He retired from playing in 2019 saying he had "pushed his body to the absolute limit".