Defender becomes Darrell Clarke's latest signing Darrell Clarke is slowly, but surely, building a squad capable of challenging at the top of the Conference Premier League next season and today he added defender Danny Leadbitter to his squad. The 23 year old Geordie graduated through the ranks at Newcastle United, for whom he signed a pro contract in 2007. Although he made a number of reserve team appearances for the Magpies he was unable to break into the first team and was released in June 2011. That same month he moved to the other end of the country when he signed for Torquay United and he made his debut for the Gulls in a 0-1 defeat against Bradford City, at Valley Parade, in October 2011. There were 15 appearances in his one season at Plainmoor and in August 2013 he signed for Hereford United, for whom he made 40 appearances last season. Essentially a right back, he can play in any position across the back line and his versatility is likely to prove to be invaluable as the season progresses. Interviews with Daniel and manager Darrell Clarke will take place at the training ground tomorrow.
Seems about right - well coached at Newcastle and some lower league experience. At least the squad seems a little more balanced than this time last year.
http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/news/article/leadbitter-on-joining-1787230.aspx Leadbitter said: “I had a couple of offers on the table, there was a good League Two offer there for me, but I got a call from Bristol Rovers and it made my decision so much easier. I played against Bristol Rovers for Torquay a couple of seasons back, and I will never forget it as there were about 9,000 people there – for a League Two team that is just massive. For the club to be in the Conference is ridiculous, and I think it will only be a matter of time before the club is back where it belongs, and I want to be a part of that. The Conference Premier is a tough league, but I have had a look at the lads here, and I think we have more than enough to trouble a lot of the teams. I will run all day, I am quick and I am a good one v one defender. I am quite versatile, where every the gaffer needs me to play, I will play.”
