Doncaster Rovers: Liam Mandeville '˜now has the belief'

Liam Mandeville says a new '˜no fear' attitude was the driving force behind his game-changing performance at Exeter City on Saturday.
Liam MandevilleLiam Mandeville
Liam Mandeville

The forward came off the bench to score Rovers’ equaliser before setting up two more goals in the 3-1 win.

Boss Darren Ferguson had been vocal about the need for Mandeville to show more aggression in his play as he looks to stake a claim for a regular berth in the Rovers side.

“I’d day it’s about self belief,” Mandeville told The Star.

“The gaffer is always saying that to me.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I know I’ve got the ability to do it. It’s just having the beleif and confidence to do it.

“I’m just going on the pitch with no fear at the moment.

“The gaffer is a great coach,” he added. “He obviously knows a lot about the game.

“He’s improving my knowledge of the game tactically. I think that’s the major improvement really.

“I’m learning about the game every day and it’s been good for my progress I think.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The 19-year-old has come in for criticism for his languid style when out on the pitch.

But he insists body language is not everything and he is putting in his all whenever he is out on the pitch.

He said: “My running style looks like I’m not trying sometimes.

“I am!

“It’s all about energy and high tempo for us. It’s about the tempo and the pressing.

“I think the defensive side of my game has improved a lot.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mandeville equalised with what appeared to be a well-taken header but admitted the ball did not exactly go where he intended to put it.

“I’ve been working on heading it down,” he said. “I still didn’t manage that but at least it’s gone into the top corner.”