Doncaster Rovers Manager Dean Saunders has started his rebuilding programme by handing five members of this season’s successful youth team their first professional contracts.
While the Club’s first-team has endured a painful season in the Championship the youth-team have been one of the better sides in the Football League Youth Alliance and have also reached the National League Cup Final against Exeter in May.
With next season in mind, and the possibility of a reserve side becoming more likely, Saunders has offered deals to Keeper Jonathan Maxted, who has featured on the bench this season, Centre Back Liam Wakefield, midfielders Andrew (Jake) McCormick and Patrick Mullen and striker Jordan Ball.
“I want to give them a route through to the first team and show that when you’re at school and you want to be the next James Coppinger there is a chance to do it at your home town Club,” Saunders told the Club’s website.
“I will give them every chance to get into our first team, young James Husband could get his chance before the end of the season if the situation allows.”
Paul Stancliffe, Youth Team Manager, added;
“I’m delighted for the lads, they have worked hard all season and their work has paid off, they have got an extra year now to get their heads down and prove themselves. It’s good for the lads and shows Dean and his management team are looking towards the future.”
“The whole team have had a fantastic season, it’s been a team effort unfortunately a couple of the lads didn’t get contracts but they have played their part in getting these five lads theirs.”
