Bristol Rovers right now are shaped in the image of Joey Barton, who has been given the maximum backing by the board. Despite being relegated under him in 2021, he was allowed to continue, and with the pressure of being expected to bounce back immediately, his side did just that, winning promotion from League Two, and then securing their place after a 17th-placed finish.
Barton's been at the Memorial Stadium for nearly two-and-a-half-years, and after suffering relegation with another mans squad, he has been able to get rid of most of the signings before him, and has brought in no fewer than 36 players. He had to assemble virtually new squads in both campaigns, and this summer is expected to be no different with up to 12 signings earmarked. Business has already begun with the new contract awarded to Josh Grant, whilst talks are ongoing with Grant Ward about extending his stay.
36 players is quite a lot, but you have to consider that Barton has relied heavily on the loan market to complement his squad, and some have seen out the campaign, whilst others have been sent back early. Most loan signings at the club have been successful, and you only have to look at Elliot Anderson who will be playing Champions League football next season as an example of that. Connor Taylor got a bit of a run at Stoke City too amid attempts from Rovers to bring him back, but in an ideal world, Rovers will want to develop their own players.
During his reign to date, the 57-year-old has overseen the arrival of more than three starting XI's, Here, BristolWorld rates all of those players out of 10 based on their impact so far
1. Aaron Collins - 9/10
Rovers’ most valuable player right now. He had a slow start to life but now try and stop him. Top scorer in his two seasons. | Getty Images Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Image
2. Paul Coutts - 7.5/10
Another player with a slow start to life but he grew in to his role last season. Injuries set him back this season but he still had an influence on the squad. | Getty Images Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Image
3. Nick Anderton - 10/10
Anderton was a big part of the team winning promotion to League One. He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma last year, and the club have come together to support him. He’s united the club and fans. | Getty Images Photo: Pete Norton/Getty Images
4. Sam Finley - 7/10
Brilliant addition. Worked with Barton at Fleetwood and is one of his leaders here. | Naomi Baker Photo: Naomi Baker