ROCHDALE’s search for Glenn Murray’s replacement ended with the arrival of Jon Shaw from Halifax.

The big frontman, an England C international, fired 20 goals for the struggling Shaymen last season and has signed a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee at Spotland.

"Jon comes with glowing recommendations and is a very good acquisition for the club," said manager Keith Hill. "There is no risk in signing Jon Shaw. He has some catching up to do with the rest of the squad in terms of the tempo we like to play at, as do all the new lads, but they have all shown up well in the last three days."

Hill jets off to Marbella today, with his management team and squad, to continue preparations for the new season. Included in the party is Barnsley’s 21-year-old central midfield player Simon Heslop.

He spent time at Halifax on loan last season, starting 28 games and netting five goals. Barnsley have given Dale permission to take a look at him during the pre-season and if he impresses Hill may look to add more depth to that department with David Perkins in talks over a move to a League One club.