Bell fumes as Akpro shuns Dale

Akpa Akpro: Chose Rovers over Dale

Rochdale assistant manager Jimmy Bell has expressed his discontent with the manner of Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro's departure.

Akpa Akpro rejected the offer of a new deal at Spotland following the club's relegation last season and the 27-year-old striker has opted to remain in League One by signing for Tranmere.

Bell admits he and boss John Coleman are disappointed by the player's decision but they are already working on bringing in a replacement.

"I'm very disappointed that Jean-Louis has left us. We made him an offer and have been in contact with (him) on many occasions but sadly he said he wanted to stay in League One," Bell told the club's official website.

"I don't believe there was much more money available and we are very disappointed in the way he has gone. I believe he owed the club a little more, but he was out of contract and he is entitled to look at other options and we wish him all the best for the future.

"John and I have been looking for other potential players all summer because you cannot wait around for players to make up their minds and we will be acting on one or two of those targets."

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