Ramsden lost out at Wembley in 2008

Bradford City manager Stuart McCall has made his first summer signing with the capture of Simon Ramsden from Rochdale.

The 27-year-old right-back has signed a one-year deal at Valley Parade after turning down a new Dale contract.

Ramsden began his career at Sunderland but left after three years without making a first-team appearance.

After spells at Grimsby Town and Notts County, on loan, he moved to Rochdale, playing over 100 games, including their play-off final defeat in 2008.

Dale manager Keith Hill told the club website: "He has been offered a deal at another club that goes way beyond our financial restrictions.

We could not meet the offer he had and it is not sad, it is simply a fact that we cannot put this club at financial risk Rochdale manager Keith Hill

"As well as a colleague he is a friend and I do genuinely wish him all the best. I know that it was a difficult decision for him to make because he has been very happy here but I can fully understand his reasons.

"Simon Ramsden is one of those quality players and would be asset to anyone and for us he has been an unsung hero and he will be missed.

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"We could not meet the offer he had and it is not sad, it is simply a fact that we cannot put this club at financial risk."

McCall has already secured the futures of two of his players this week.

Defenders Matt Clarke and Lee Bullock have both agreed to stay at Valley Parade for another season on reduced terms.

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