Joey Barton reveals why Bristol Rovers handed a new contract to Josh Grant

Bristol Rovers have secured the future of one of their long-serving players with Joey Barton outlinig his hopes
Josh Grant’s stay has been extended. (Image: Getty Images) Josh Grant’s stay has been extended. (Image: Getty Images)
Josh Grant’s stay has been extended. (Image: Getty Images)

Joey Barton says Bristol Rovers still have belief in Josh Grant after signing a new contract.

The former Chelsea midfielder was out-of-contract this summer and one of four players offered new terms. Grant was limited to just 10 minutes of pitch time last season but there is hope he can put his injury troubles behind him after committing his future to the club.

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The 24-year-old has signed a one-year contract with a further one-year option. He has made 54 appearances scoring four goals and helped the team in the first half of their promotion-winning campaign in 2021.

Grant had been impacted by a knee injury last season and that carried over to this campaign. He underwent surgery paid for by the club in October and neared a return this month but a slight knock ruled him out from adding to his outing against Oxford United.

“It was great to see Josh back on the grass at the end of the last campaign,” said Barton about Grant following the news of his new deal.

“We have full belief in what he offers to this football club and I’m confident he will make a big impact with our group for next season.”

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Rovers are now awaiting on the decision of Grant Ward who was also offered a new deal. Ward joined on a short-term contract in January and played in every match following his move from Blackpool. He played 18 times, making 17 starts, and scored the match-winning goal against Fleetwood Town.

Academy duo Harvey Greenslade and Ryan Jones have also been offered new terms with Rovers awaiting their decision. Greenslade had been on loan at Truro City in the National League South whilst Jones, 21, was at Hungerford Town.

Paul Coutts, Harry Anderson, and Calum MacDonald were all let go from their deals. Coutts was meant to be taking up a coaching role, after taking his place in the dugout alongside Barton, but that has yet to be confirmed. Anderson was offered a deal before the New Year but the club could not come to an agreement with him, though the door has been opened for him to return should he prove his fitness to the manager. MacDonald joined on deadline day from Stockport County but found his opportunities limited because of the form of Lewis Gordon. A move to Chesterfield has been suggested for the 25-year-old.

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