Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Sport
Sam Frost

Tranmere Rovers boss explains why they have signed Bristol Rovers forward after long pursuit


Tranmere Rovers manager Micky Mellon believes Harvey Saunders' move from Bristol Rovers will unlock the forward's potential.

The 25-year-old has signed an 18-month contract on Merseyside, leaving the Gas after 43 appearances across a year-and-a-half stay at the Mem.

Gas boss Joey Barton had admitted he wanted to keep Saunders in an impact substitute capacity, but the former Fleetwood Town forward, understandably, wants more starting opportunities, which Mellon says he will get with Tranmere.

Mellon revealed Tranmere have been chasing Saunders' services for a sustained period, coming up short with an offer in the summer before agreeing an undisclosed fee this week.

“We have said our approach to recruitment this year is to attract young players with potential for development, who can become assets for the club," Mellon told Tranmere's club website. "Harvey was a slightly late starter having not come through the traditional academy route, but has a goal ratio of a goal every 202 minutes on the pitch for Bristol Rovers, which is very respectable.

DON'T MISS:

Bristol Rovers prepared to pass loan limit as Joey Barton restocks squad for play-off push

Bristol Rovers predicted team vs Morecambe: New signings bring new options for Joey Barton

Joey Barton talks Bristol Rovers goalkeeping situation as instant impact is made at The Quarters

"Players can sometimes get a bit lost in a club if they are not regular starters, a bit like Josh Dacres-Cogley found at Birmingham City. We believe he will develop from having more game time at Tranmere, as Josh has done.

“We had tried to secure Harvey from Bristol Rovers in the summer but they were unable to release him then, so I am delighted to have got this across the line now.

“This season we have been strong in many areas, including in creating chances, but we have been lacking in the final third and we believe that Harvey can help us address that.”

Saunders is the fifth player to leave the Gas in the January transfer window, following Trevor Clarke, Alfie Kilgour, Bobby Thomas and Zain Westbrooke out of the exit door.

Grant Ward became Rovers' third signing of the month on Friday, joining on a permanent deal after loan moves for goalkeeper Ellery Balcombe and centre-back Jarell Quansah.

SIGN UP: To receive our free Rovers newsletter, bringing you the latest from the Mem

READ NEXT:

READ MORE:    Bristol City predicted team vs West Brom: Pearson has a Semenyo-sized hole to fill in the side
Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.