Bristol Rovers are yet to make a signing this transfer window but are trying their hardest according to manager Matt Taylor
Matt Taylor has provided an update on Bristol Rovers’ transfer activity, with the Gas still yet to make any acquisitions as the end of the January transfer window approaches.
Rovers and other teams have until 11:59 p.m. on January 31, next Wednesday, to finish any business before the summer, but bringing new faces into the building has proven difficult thus far, especially given the squad’s recent troubles. It’s also unknown what the present operations look like in terms of scouting, identifying targets, and then closing deals, given former Head of Football Operations Eddy Jennings left the club prior to the Gas manager’s appointment.
Tuesday night’s 1-0 home defeat to Exeter City made it five losses in six to start off 2024 and it’s evident that support is needed as Taylor admitted that Rovers need help following his arrival at the club early last month
“We need some help with this group in terms of bodies,” the 41-year-old declared. “I’d like to do more. I think that’s a fair assessment. I don’t think any Bristol Rovers fans would deny that there are certain positions on that pitch which we want to improve but actually can’t.
“Of sure, it is frustrating. We knew what we wanted in terms of position as soon as we went into the building.
“I believe I’ve mentioned before that we’re playing catch-up. There is nothing in place to hunt for and put those names on the table, so we are being reactive in this market, which means it will most likely take longer than you want, and regrettably, time allows other teams to become interested. It’s that simple. Identify a good player, only to discover that there are five or six more players who can probably outwork you in the market.
“So, that is where we are. That’s why we haven’t brought in a player this window, but we’re working as hard as we can.”
As reported on Monday, Bristol Live understands Bristol Rovers have met Grimsby Town player Kamil Conteh’s release clause. However, it isn’t a done deal yet, and it does sound like there are obstacles in getting it over the line.
Whether or not Taylor was referring to Conteh specifically isn’t 100 per cent certain but there’s a good chance he was when adding: “I was sat here on Saturday hoping to have one in the building in time for today who would’ve started the game. It’s not happened so will that happen before the weekend? I’m not sure.”
Elsewhere this month, there has been consistent discussion regarding Chris Martin’s future at the club given that the short-term contract he signed as a free agent in September is due to expire this week. It is understood that Friday is the specific day, meaning that as things stand he won’t be able to play against Oxford United on Saturday.
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