Milton Keynes Dons' former assistant head coach Ian Watson has taken over at the helm of Rochdale. The League Two side were a part of one of the most dramatic final days in recent memory, narrowly missing out on the title to York City in a thrilling clash between the sides which was ultimately settled in stoppage time. Dale secured their return to the Football League via the play-offs in similarly dramatic fashion with an injury-time equaliser to send the game to penalties. Boss Jimmy McNulty was then snapped up by League One side Stockport County, with Rochdale heading to South Shields to snag Watson and bring him back to Spotland. Watson joined Mike Williamson at MK Dons in 2023 following the swift departure of Graham Alexander after just a handful of months in charge at Stadium MK. A popular coach amongst the players, Watson helped Dons to finish in the play-offs but returned north to join Carlisle United in an ill-fated move back north. Watson would return to Milton Keynes Dons's backyard to take the reins at Rochdale, bringing his experience and knowledge to the club. The move is seen as a significant coup for Rochdale, who are looking to build on their recent success and push for promotion in the coming season. With Watson at the helm, the club is expected to be a force to be reckoned with in League Two.