Ethan Brierley has been recalled by his League Two parent club Rochdale, bringing his loan spell at Moors to an end.

Brierley, 18, joined Spennymoor at the end of last month and started five games, making two appearances from the substitutes bench.

The highly-rated prospect scored one goal in that time, when he came off the bench to seal a 3-0 victory over Curzon Ashton in the last minute.

The midfielder joins back up with The Dale’s squad who are currently 18th in League Two and are now completely safe from relegation.

Brierley certainly impressed during his time up in County Durham as he gained valuable experience at the second highest tier of non-league football.

He said: “I really enjoyed the time I spent at Spennymoor. I learnt many different things in my time there, the lads were brilliant with me and they all took me under their wing. 

“I’d like to thank Jason Ainsley and the gaffers for giving me this opportunity and showing the trust they have shown in me.

“I’ve had many stand out moments whilst I was there and it’s an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Finally, I’d like to thank all the fans for their kind words of support during my time at Spennymoor, it’s all massively appreciated.”

Moors’ joint-manager Anthony Johnson commented on Brierley’s departure.

He said: “The nature of loaning players is first and foremost to give them a platform to play men’s first team football.

“Ethan has been offered the opportunity to finish the season with his parent club in their first team. This is a wonderful opportunity for Ethan and his fantastic family to show everyone at Rochdale what he’s learned with us at Spennymoor and to showcase his incredible ability.”

“Although we’re sad to lose him from a football perspective, we’re proud of the role we’ve played with Ethan and all of the loan players we’ve got with us. 

“We’re now seen as a club who will give opportunities to young players, no matter their age, and teach them the lessons of what playing first team football is all about. We wish him all the very best for the future.”