Darlington player of the year Rob Purdie today rejoined former boss Dave Penney at Oldham Athletic.

He has signed a two-year contract at the League One outfit and in doing so becomes the third player to leave Darlington this week.

Fellow midfielders Ricky Ravenhill and Jason Kennedy have also left in recent days, moving to Notts County and Rochdale respectively.

Although predominantly a midfielder, Purdie's versatility was frequently exploited with Penney using him to play in a variety of positions.

Chief among them were both full-back positions as well both wide midfield areas during two years with Darlington where he became a popular figure.

He joined in the summer of 2007 from Hereford United where he was captain and he also briefly took that role towards the end of this season when Steve Foster was injured.

Purdie, 26, said: "I'm absolutely delighted to be here. I know the gaffer inside out and I'm looking forward to a successful couple of years - and hopefully the play-offs, at least.

"Dave is a very hands-on manager who likes to get involved in the training session and works well with players as individuals as well. I'm sure he will do a good job here.

"He has played me pretty much anywhere; it's up to me to make sure I am consistent wherever I play and hopefully hold down a starting position in one particular area."

Purdie, made 90 appearances and scored five goals while with Darlington.

Penney added: "I've worked with Rob over the last two years so obviously I know him well.

"He plays in any position barring goalkeeper and centre-half, he's good with both feet, he's a good age and he's a great footballer.

"The player of the year award he got last year is testament to a player from whom I know what I'm going to get week in, week out.

"He is very consistent and players with the ability to be versatile will be vital to us if we're running with a smaller squad next season."