Josh Coburn given nickname by Bristol Rovers teammates over likeness to Man City star

Joey Barton has reacted to the new nickname of Bristol Rovers goal scorer Josh Coburn amongst his teammates.

The 19-year-old scored the Gas’ equaliser at Hillsborough tonight as they battled for a point with the Owls. Rovers picked up their second positive result in succession against top-six opposition with Coburn also netting against Plymouth Argyle.

In a post-match interview alongside man-of-the-match James Belshaw, the goalkeeper dubbed him the ‘Teeside Haaland’. The original Erling Haaland of course has set the world alight since his move to Manchester City.

Coburn has had the desired impact at Rovers, scoring three goals in five appearances after joining on a season-long loan deal from Middlesbrough. Chris Wilder had green-lighted the move but now Manchester United legend Michael Carrick is at the helm at the Riverside Stadum.

“I better be quiet about what I am saying because Michael Carrick has gone in there,” Barton said in his post-match reaction on Sky Sports.

“The last thing we want is them to recall him because he had a period out and we had to be patient with him. He had an injury but he has rewarded our patience and he’s really added to our team.

He added: “I thought when Lofty (Ryan) went off today I thought we were going to win that game. We ended up losing Ryan and that was a big blow for us.

“The lad have not only absorbed conceding that goal but the finish was a moment of real quality. I think from a 19-year-old boy he’s got an enormous future.”

Praise was also reserved for Belshaw, who made six saves, earning the player-of-the-match amongst the Sky Sports commentators. Lee Hendrie, former Aston Villa midfielder made the choice along with Gary Weaver.

Belshaw was making his return to Yorkshire after being on the books of Harrogate Town. The only gloss off of the 32-year-old’s performance was Michael Smith’s header which Belshaw could do nothing about.

“He was first class all of last season especially when the team wasn’t firing on all cylinders,” said Barton.

“He had a little less work to do when the lads picked up. Tonight he’s made three fantastic saves and rightly wins man-of-the-match albeit when you come here you expect Sheffield Wednesday to have some pressure.

“I’m pleased for Belly, he is a Yorkshireman. I think he’ll be delighted with his performance and the only blemish being the goal in stoppage time.”