Former York City manager Terry Dolan could be in line to return as manager of Rochdale - ironically with a little help from the Minstermen.

Dale's manager of the last seven months, Alan Buckley, has left the Spotland club by 'mutual consent' in the wake of City's defeat of the Lancashire club, which has hastened Buckley's departure. That 2-1 reverse was Rochdale's ninth defeat in their last 12 games.

Dolan, who has been on 'gardening leave' from City since last summer when he was sacked as manager and replaced by Chris Brass, was highly regarded during his first spell at Spotland, where he led the Dale from1989 to 1991.

As part of his dismissal as City manager Dolan (pictured above) remains on the payroll of the Bootham Crescent club until this summer provided he does not find alternative employment.

Meanwhile, City's struggling Third Division foes Darlington have issued a 'hands-off' warning over coveted former Minstermen striker Barry Conlon.

North-East rivals Hartlepool, on the fringes of an outside promotion push in Division Two, are reportedly interested in Conlon, who was at City from 1999-2001 when he bagged 11 goals in 48 outings before moving to the Quakers. But Darlington boss David Hodgson insisted the ex-Eire Under-21 striker was committed to the club, who are currently in adminstration.

One-time York City loanee striker Chris Iwelumo has been transfer-listed by Second Division Stoke City.

Updated: 10:32 Wednesday, December 31, 2003