In preparation for life in League Two, Doncaster Rovers completed their first signing of the summer, new head of football operations James Coppinger spoke about reconnecting with fans and Joe Dodoo has been linked with a move away. This is a Doncaster Rovers weekly round-up.
Doncaster Rovers Weekly Round-up: New Signing, Reconnecting With Fans and Potential Striker Exit
New Signing Made
Doncaster Rovers completed their first signing of the summer in Harrison Biggins after he left Fleetwood Town. The transfer was the first of James Coppinger’s reign as head of football operations at the club and the first summer signing for manager Gary McSheffrey, who took over in December 2021.
Rovers have started their business early as is always important.
Biggins spoke about the club targeting an immediate return to League One being part of his reason for joining.
Biggins said: “The club speaks for itself and the intentions this season are to go back up, that is my aim and I want to be successful here.”
Desire to Reconnect With Supporters
Doncaster Rovers legend James Coppinger, who now holds a key role at the football club, has spoken about plans to form a team to rekindle a connection with the club’s fans following a dismal season that ended in relegation.
Coppinger told Doncaster Rovers’ YouTube channel, as cited by the Doncaster Free Press: “I understand people’s frustrations because I’m in the same boat. I’m a fan, I’ve been with the club for 18 years.
“There’s definitely been a disconnect between the players and the supporters and the staff. Covid played a huge part in that. But I want to get that back.
“This club means so much to people. I was invited to a funeral recently and to stand outside the Eco-Power Stadium and pay my respects to someone genuinely showed how much this club means to people.
“I’ve experienced it with my grandad and Middlesbrough. He was a supporter for 60 years.
“Having that connection with the players and the fans, especially at a football club like this, is one of the most important things.
“That is one of my main objectives and responsibilities and I’m really looking forward to getting that back.”
Joe Dodoo Exit Possible
As cited by the Doncaster Free Press, journalist Alan Nixon has reported that Rovers striker Joe Dodoo, 26, is attracting interest from fellow League Two side Walsall.
Walsall are managed by former Newport County boss Michael Flynn, who is interested in signing the Ex-Rangers and Leicester City forward.
Joe Dodoo 🇬🇭
Played for Leicester, Bury, Rangers, Charlton, Blackpool, Bolton, Ankara Keciorengucu, Wigan & Doncaster
3️⃣6️⃣ goals in 1️⃣7️⃣1️⃣ appearances pic.twitter.com/ILVSF9TMM4
— Vital Walsall (@VitalWalsall) May 22, 2022
Dodoo scored four league goals in 33 games for Doncaster last season and was announced on their retained list with one-year remaining under contract.
However, it is reported Rovers will consider his future at the club if they are able to sign a replacement.
Doncaster aren’t particularly strong on forward options with Jordy Hiwula’s future also speculated on. Reo Griffiths and Kieran Agard would be the only strikers remaining should Dodoo and Hiwula leave without replacement.
