Gary McSheffrey delivers verdict on Doncaster Rovers transfer swoop

Doncaster Rovers boss Gary McSheffrey thinks new signing Adam Clayton could provide the boost needed for his dressing room.

The experienced midfielder was previously at Birmingham City but left by mutual consent back in November. On Tuesday he signed for Rovers and McSheffrey is delighted to have the player on board. He told the club’s official media: “He’s got great experience from the teams he’s been at and he’s played at the top level, he brings a lot of character to the group.

“The big one we were looking for in this window was an experienced midfielder and that’s what we’ve managed to get.

“Timing is everything, and he’s been patient since leaving Birmingham waiting for the right move to come.

“He’s turned down a couple of good options for one reason or another, after meeting him last week and chatting to him we both got a good feeling about things.”

After spending his youth career at Manchester City, Clayton started gaining experience in the league. He’s now played for the likes of Leeds United, Huddersfield Town and made 213 appearances for Middlesborough across six years.

With Doncaster towards the bottom of the league and fighting relegation, McSheffrey believes he is just the type of person they need in the dressing room. He said: “He’s got the characteristics we want in the dressing room, we had options but Adam impressed me with his willingness to come in and make an impact.

“If he hits target in terms of games then his contract rolls on for an extra year, and that is the same as Ollie Younger.

“We’re planning for the longer term and giving players incentives to earn a longer deal with the club.

“We’re seeing the bigger picture and we’ve been shrewd with who we’ve brought into the group.”

The Verdict:

Adam