Football Rovers boss lifts the lid on reasons for Taylor's absence

DARRELL Clarke has confirmed that defender Connor Taylor has been subject to a number of offers from other clubs and, as a result, the 23-year-old has submitted a transfer request.

- Daniel HARGRAVES

Taylor, who was named Rovers’ player of the season last term as the Gas were relegated from League One, was absent from the squad for their 1-0 opening day defeat at home to Harrogate Town amid speculation regarding his future in BS7.

The centre-back had also been missing from the squad that travelled to Oxford United for Rovers’ final preseason friendly last weekend, despite being involved in all other friendly matches and, at times, wearing the captain's armband.

Asked about Taylor's absence, Clarke said post-match: “We've had three, four bids from clubs for Connor. He’s handed in a transfer request. He no longer wants to be here. So these are the sort of things you have to deal with as a head coach and a manager in the week, looking to solutions for problems.

“Obviously, the owners will have a fee. They won't get mugged off, that's for sure. We have to see what happens and develops over the next week or so with that.