IAN LAWLOR HAS taken the decision to drop down to League Two in England in order to increase his chances of securing regular first-team football.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper, who has been with Manchester City since the age of 16, today signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Doncaster Rovers.
The Dubliner told the club’s official website: “I’m delighted to be here. I’m looking forward to progressing and getting involved with the lads. I spoke with the manager and saw the ambition of the club. Obviously we’re on a great run at the moment but to see the future is something I want to be a part of.
“The facilities are really good. The stadium is fantastic for a League Two club, but the project going forward is really special. It’s nice to have the feeling that they want me to come in on a permanent basis. But there is nothing guaranteed in football so I’m ready for a battle.
“I’ll work hard every day and, if selected come the weekend, will give everything I have. In the short-term I’m hoping to get in and play, but the aim is to get promoted out of this league. I’m here to give as much as I can for this team.”
Lawlor was unable to make a first-team breakthrough at Manchester City but he did get an opportunity to impress last season during loan spells at Barnet and Bury.
Having represented the Republic of Ireland up as far as U21 level, Lawlor has also featured in several senior squads but has yet to be capped by Martin O’Neill.
Doncaster Rovers, who are managed by Darren Ferguson, are currently four points clear of Plymouth Argyle at the top of League Two. The Yorkshire outfit were relegated from League One last season.
