Rovers boss gets go-ahead to ‘explore’ free-agent market

HEAD coach Steve Evans discussed the possibility of Bristol Rovers signing free agents and the future of Callum Morton following Tuesday night's 2-0 win against Walsall in League Two.

- Will MURRAY wilimurray@reachplccom

Rovers head coach Steve Evans

Yusuf Akhamrich and a wonder-strike from Kofi Balmer secured the three points for the Gas, as they moved seven points clear of the relegation zone.

It was the club’s second consecutive league victory, a day after the January transfer window closed, during which the Gas signed nine players, and 10 departed.

Darrell Clarke signed Morton in November as a free agent, and Evans didn’t rule out the possibility of signing players without a contract over the remaining months of the campaign.

Speaking to the Bristol Post, the head coach was asked whether it was a market he would consider. He said: “I was with the chairman before the game today discussing a couple. He gave me his blessing to explore them further. The wonderful thing at this football club as head coach, people say in the past, why was the recruitment not quite right? Well, it only lies at the door of the head coach or the manager, because they decide who comes in.