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Waiting game is a sign of the times for Rochdale boss

29/ 5/2001

But fees and wage demands could prove to be a stumbling block in Parkin's bid to sign the players he feels will strengthen his squad.

He has already been linked with a number of players, including Barnet midfielder John Doolan, Burnley's Paul Smith and Macclesfield Town's Rae Ingram to name a few.

"We've got an idea of a few players who we would like to bring to the club but I've said all along that we would wait for all the lists to come out first," Parkin said.

"When they do, we will go through them with a fine tooth comb and take things from there.

"It's important to see the whole list to keep our options open because a lot will be determined on what we can and can't afford.

"Wages have gone up astronomically over the last 12 months.

"We know who we would like to have at the club but a lot depends on whether or not we can meet their wage demands."

The success of former goalkeeper Stephen Bywater, who was sold to West Ham, could help Rochdale financially, however.

The 19-year-old was brought on as a half-time substitute in England Under 21s 3-0 win over their Mexican counterparts at Leicester City's Filbert Street ground last week.

Rochdale do not receive money for any appearances he makes for England U21s as a substitute.

But, if he makes four starts, the club will be handed £25,000 following a deal they struck up with the Hammers at the time of his transfer.