Darren Ferguson plays down fears that quiet January transfer window could lead to Doncaster Rovers sliding down table

The Scot is currently attempting to push through a permanent deal for Sheffield United midfielder Ben Whiteman.

But he has admitted that will leave him little scope to do anything else in the January transfer window.

Rovers’ impressive run of form over Christmas - halted by last weekend’s FA Cup defeat to Rochdale - has seen them rise to 11th in the table.

However, supporters are still haunted by the club’s free fall this time two years ago which started with a quiet January window and ended in relegation.

Asked if Rovers had enough resources to avoid a repeat scenario, Ferguson said: “We hope we do.

“Obviously January still has two and a half weeks left in it.

“By the time you come out of January you’ve only got about 16 games left.

“Results can affect confidence and belief but I’d like to think we’re a slightly different group from two years ago. I’m pretty sure we are.”

Whiteman scored seven goals in 30 appearances on loan for Rovers before returning to Bramall Lane last week.

“I’ve made Ben a priority because he did so well and these are the sort of players I want to bring in on a permanent basis,” said Ferguson.

“We’ve already seen it with [Niall] Mason. First it was a loan and then we got him in permanently.

“Houghton is very similar.

“Ben’s another one who is a good age and I think will only get better.”

Rovers are also close to signing teenage defender Shane Blaney from Finn Harps.