Rochdale have named five-year-old Joshua McCormack in their matchday squad for this evening's Checkatrade Trophy clash against Hartlepool United.
The youngster, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year - which he was recently told is terminal - forms part of the League One outfit's 18-player roster.
Joshua was unable to attend the game, which got underway at the Northern Gas and Power Stadium at 7.30pm, but had a shirt hung up in the changing room pre-match bearing the number 55.
Dale manager Keith Hill told the club's official website: "He has touched the hearts of everyone at Rochdale 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."
Rochdale players presented Joshua and his family with a cheque earlier this year to help towards a fundraising campaign for treatment, while the avid supporter was also a mascot for the day in August.
Daniel Lewis
