Palfrey departs Oldham for Rochdale

Oldham captain Lewis Palfrey is leaving the Roughyeds to join newly promoted Rochdale.

According to Oldham the club offered him a new and improved contract for 2017 but he turned it down to sign for the Hornets.

Palfrey has played in 96 games for Oldham scoring 22 tries, 350 goals, three drop goals and 791 points.

In the Roughyeds’ 2015 League 1 promotion campaign he topped the division’s goals and points charts and was named League 1 player of the year.

Oldham coach Scott Naylor said: “Lewis has decided to leave us and he goes with our best wishes.

“We offered him a new deal which was the best deal he has ever been offered at Oldham.

“He wanted to head in a different direction. After four years here he wanted something new and he wanted to play in a different environment, so he has left us.

“He’s been with us a long time – in the tough times and the good times – and we are grateful for everything he has done for the team and for the club.

“He has led the team in losing Grand Finals and then to promotion from League 1.

“He played a huge part in keeping us in the Championship this season and I hope the fans respect that and respect his decision to move on.

“We wish him all the best at his new club and with his new team mates and we will no doubt see him soon.”

Former London Broncos, Batley Bulldogs and Keighley Cougars halfback Scott Leatherbarrow has signed for Oldham and will replace Palfrey.