BREAKING: Josh Sims returns to Doncaster Rovers for the rest of the season

The 24-year-old enjoyed a tremendously successful few months at the Keepmoat after arriving on loan on transfer deadline day in October.

He scored three goals and provided seven assists in 14 matches before suffering a hamstring injury which looked to have ended his time with Rovers.

By that time in mid-December, a number of Championship clubs had been attracted to Sims, and the fact he is set to reach the end of his contract at St Mary’s at the end of the season.

It was expected that Southampton would cash in on the winger, who came through their youth system.

But it is understood Sims was not attracted to the potential options on the table and favoured a return to the Keepmoat on loan.

Rovers have monitored his fitness since his return to Southampton while boss Darren Moore made only tentative plans for potential replacements should he be unable to re-sign Sims.

It is expected he will return to training with the Rovers squad on Monday, with initial projections that he will be ready for action by mid-February.

Sims will re-take the 20 shirt for Rovers.

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