MARK Patterson has quit Rossendale United - again -to take over as assistant manager at Leigh RMI.

But the former Rovers and Bolton midfielder, who has helped the Dark Lane side win twice in three games since his return after a year at Scarborough, doesn't expect his departure will upset the applecart too much.

Patterson, whose return was short yet sweet, is confident Dale have got what it takes to make an impression on the UniBond first division in the New Year.

"I wish the team well. They've got a good bunch of lads," the 37-year-old said.

"I went back to help them out short-term because I was looking for something in the coaching line. As it turned out I only played three games because the position at Leigh came up during the week.

"But there is no reason why Rossendale can't have a successful season. They've got a decent squad, Jim is a decent fellow and the players will play for him.

"The team has been missing a bit of steel but I think Jim will get that eventually."

Rossendale entertain Lincoln United this afternoon but will be without long-term injury worry Matt Woods, who has ankle ligament damage, and Kevin Holliday, who serves a one-match suspension, following his move from Lancaster City.

Neverthless, manager McBride is confident his team can build on last week's good performance against promotion-chasing Spennymoor and get a result this weekend.

"We're looking for three points against Lincoln," he said.

"The Spennymoor game just showed how far we've come because, in the second half, there was only one team in it.

"Although we were disappointed to lose the game, I wasn't disappointed with the overall performance.

"When I joined the club, it was like starting the season all over again but I'm pleased for the players because they've knuckled down and deserve a bit of credit.

"And I'm sure it won't be long before the fans are flooding back into Dark Lane to watch the lads again."

He added he was optimistic about the Christmas programme.

"We are looking forward to the game against Radcliffe Borough on Boxing Day and we've still got two cup competitions to look forward to."