Opposing View – Doncaster Rovers

Find out what a Donny fan makes of their season so far

Ahead of Saturday’s clash, Vital Doncaster ed. Daz King, gives us the inside track on the Yorkshire outfit…

What were your hopes, fears and expectations for the season?

After the way Rovers finished last season I was expecting another struggle. At the start of the season I would have been happy with fourth from bottom.

What do you make of Dean Saunders so far?

At least since he has come in we have started to take some points but some of the games have been poor, Barnsley in the last game being one.

What sort of impact has Willie Mackay’s scheme made?

The players that have come in have generally looked good, especially Diouf and Chimbonda.

Do you think Mackay’s scheme is a good thing for Doncaster Rovers or not?

I must be honest, I really do not like it. I can see why the club have taken this route but there are many negatives. The players that have come in are all on short-term deals, who could all leave in January. It usually takes time for players to get to know each other and work together. How do the club get players to come in on two and three years deals when they could be replaced by short-term fixes.

Will you be able to hang onto Billy Sharp in January?

If someone comes in with a £3 million bid again, I can see him going. He is a player who has never been motivated by money. He turned clubs down to join Doncaster and also turned down a move in the summer to Southampton. To be honest, after what the lads been through I just wish him the best in whatever he decides to do.

Who should we be looking out for on Saturday?

Diouf as looked good since arriving and certainly stands out in the Championship

Match predictions?

Rovers really need three points but it depends which team turns up. For that reason, I am going for a repeat of last season, 1-1.

Thanks for your time Daz, and absolutely spot-on about Billy Sharp. I’m sure everyone would join you in wishing the lad all the best.