League One club Rochdale named five-year-old Joshua McCormack in their match day squad for Wednesday's EFL (Checkatrade) Trophy match against Hartlepool United.
The Dale made McCormack their youngest ever signing, issued him the number 55 shirt and put his name on the team sheet for their eventual 2-1 win at Victoria Park.
Joshua is suffering from a terminal brain tumour and although he was too ill to attend the match, was honoured by Rochdale manager Keith Hill.
“It is a real honour to name Joshua McCormack as a substitute for tonight's game," he told the club's official website.
“He has touched the hearts of everyone at Rochdale Football Club since we met him for the first time back in February.
“No child should have to go through what Joshua is going through and we, as a club and a group of players, will continue to do whatever we can to support him and his family.
“We hope this one small gesture can bring some light to his family during this difficult time."
BREAKING NEWS: There will be a new addition to the Dale squad for tonight's @CheckatradeTrpy match. More to follow... #RAFCpic.twitter.com/iCssBhx0Fc
— Rochdale AFC (@officiallydale) November 9, 2016
#RAFC Tonight's team sheet #McCormack55pic.twitter.com/1dv9VRotSS
— Rochdale AFC (@officiallydale) November 9, 2016
#RAFC Joshua's shirt has pride of place in the dressing room #McCormack55pic.twitter.com/t7A8ZmS0NQ
— Rochdale AFC (@officiallydale) November 9, 2016
Joshua McCormack is trending across the UK. An incredible amount of support has been shown to this special little boy today. Thank you! pic.twitter.com/m2kpHH9Azb
— Rochdale AFC (@officiallydale) November 9, 2016
