ROCHDALE boss Steve Parkin is waiting to see how Lee McEvilly does in his loan spell at Accrington to decides if he has a future at Spotland.

"I haven't had the chance to see him play that much. Our reserve games are infrequent so we decided that it is better he went out on loan," said Parkin. "It is for the benefit of the lad, Rochdale and Accrington.

"It gives me a chance to have a good look at him. He has made a real effort in the last three weeks since I returned to the club.

He was carrying some weight but he has lost seven or eight pounds.

"I have had a good chat with him - he is keen to play some games and so he hopefully will get the chance."

McEvilly came to Spotland after Parkin had left the first time - he was signed by John Hollins.

"Lee was a big hit in his first season here - he got international call-ups and scored a lot of goals and it was his first season as a full-time player.

"After such a season there can sometimes be a lull in the second year as it is difficult to live up to it and that I think is what has happened to him, as well as the succession of managers that have been here. He has just fallen into that trap but hopefully this is a chance for him to get back on track.

"We have a good relationship with Accrington Stanley so I had no doubt that he will be well looked after.

"It also gives me the opportunity to maybe bring someone else in."