DALE have plundered the ranks of the Premiership champions in their latest piece of pre-season business.

Steve Parkin has signed 19-year-old Ashley Probets from Arsenal on a one-year deal after the promising youngster was released by the Gunners.

The Dale boss was alerted to Probets' progress by former Stoke City team-mate Steve Bould, now in charge of Arsenal's under 19 side.

Assistant-manager Tony Ford, who played for the Potters with Parkin and Bould, said: "Because he's come from Arsenal he must have something about him, but he will have a lot to prove in the Football League."

The left-sided player - equally at home in midfield or defence - made his reserve team debut at Highbury last season and was a regular in the under 17 side. His arrival could put pressure on Patrick McCourt to improve his form after a couple of indifferent seasons on the left wing.

While Parkin is said to be pleased with his latest capture - the fourth so far - he was disappointed to lose out on Mansfield full-back Adam Eaton, who accepted a fresh offer from the Stags after looking set to move to Spotland.

Parkin told the club's official website: "It's disappointing when you think you've got the player you want and the deal doesn't go through."

"Mansfield matched our offer and I suppose Adam thought it was a case of better the devil you know and decided to stay put."

Ford remains in touch with Parkin, who is combining a family holiday with the Euro 2004 tournament. He said: "I think Steve's put a couple of things on hold while he is away."

• DALE have added a friendly date to their pre-season schedule.

Steve Parkin's side will travel to Dark Lane to take on UniBond outfit Rossendale United on Saturday 17 July, kick-off 3pm.

Rochdale encountered the "other Dale" before the start of last season, when Alan Buckley's men won 4-0 thanks to goals from Lee McEvilly (2), Sean McClare and Kevin Townson.

The full July list of warm-up fixtures is:

Wed 14 - Acc Stanley (a) 7.30pm

Sat 17 - Rossendale Utd (a) 3pm

Mon 19 - Stenhousemuir (a) 7.30pm

Wed 21 - Raith Rovers (a) 7.30pm

Sat 24 - Berwick Rangers (a) 2pm

Tues 27 - Gloucester City (a) 7.30pm

Fri 30 - Oldham Athletic (h) 7.30pm

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