Lewis Montrose joins Rochdale

Latics' young midfielder Lewis Montrose has joined side Rochdale on loan until the end of the season.

The 19 year-old centre midfielder will join promotion-chasing League Two side in time for their trip to Brentford on Saturday, and indications are that he is part of manager Keith Hill's first team plans.

Manchester-born Montrose has appeared once for the Latics first team, in the Carling Cup at Crewe Alexandra in the 2006-07 season, and he has been a regular for the reserves this season.

Manager Steve Bruce said: "Lewis is a good young player and I think the experience of being in a first team environment on match-day will do him a world of good. I wish him all the best."

Montrose said: "I've been waiting for a moment like this, I hope I can get some valuable experience."