Football Clarke expecting lots of changes as he looks to spark a revival at Rovers

DARRELL Clarke admits "there will be changes" during the summer transfer window at Bristol Rovers, but the new Gas boss is adamant the squad that were relegated from League One last season will be given his "full support" if they return for pre-season with the right attitude and mindset.

- Dan CARTER

Under the management of Inigo Calderon, Rovers slipped into the fourth tier of English football last season, with their relegation to League Two set in stone before their final-day defeat away to Blackpool. Just a day later, Calderon’s exit was confirmed by the club, as were the departures of nine players, including Scott Sinclair, Grant Ward and Jack Hunt, with the publication of the Pirates’ retained list.

Less than three days after that defeat to the Seasiders, Rovers announced Clarke would be the man to succeed the former Brighton youth coach in the Memorial Stadium dugout, having previously taken charge of the Gas between 2014 and 2018.

Although the 47-year-old only officially started work on Monday, he has already met with the recruitment team ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer in north Bristol. Of course, changes will be made, but the Rovers head coach is ready and willing to give those already in post a chance to prove themselves.