Winger of the Season: Rochdale’s Nathaniel Mendez-Laing

NML having a great season for Dale – bbc.co.uk

When it comes to rebuilding the careers of talented footballers who have fallen by the wayside, there are few better League One coaches than Keith Hill.

The whimsical Mancunian’s latest piece of genius man management has been on Nathaniel Mendez-Laing. The winger’s ability has long been apparent, going back to his Championship days with Peterborough United.

However, a combination of injuries, question marks over his conduct and a fractious relationship with manager Darren Ferguson had seen him fall out of favour. It has taken him some time to find his feet again but he is doing just that this term, with some excellent performances for Rochdale.

The 24-year-old’s pace and power is proving difficult for third tier full-backs to handle. He has the confidence to knock the ball a few yards in front of his opponent and back himself to beat them for pace. His capacity to do so not only helps create chances, it also forces teams back, opening up space for midfielders such as Matthew Lund and Callum Camps.

Sadly for Dale, the Wolves academy graduate’s contract runs out in the summer. With little external investment and home crowds of little more than 3k, it is hard to see them warding off bigger-budgeted League One clubs, if not some in the Championship.

Mendez-Laing has always had the talent to play at that level, but it has taken Hill’s coaching to get it out of him.