Darren Moore on why Jason Lokilo's deal is for one year with Doncaster Rovers

But the Rovers boss insists Lokilo can earn the opportunity to extend that in the coming months.

The 21-year-old signed a permanent deal with the club this week after impressing on loan last term.

There have been concerns from a section of Rovers’ support that, given the short length of his contract, the club could lose Lokilo quickly if he impresses this season.

Moore says the financial stability of the club was the priority when planning contracts for the coming campaign.

“You have to look in the situation where the club is at now and keep the protection for the club going forward,” he told the Free Press.

“Should he do as well as what we expect then there are other opportunities for that contract to be increased.”

Due to coronavirus halting football in March, Lokilo was restricted to just one senior appearance for Rovers – in the win over Wycombe Wanderers – after joining on loan from Crystal Palace in January.

Time was taken to bring the Belgian winger up to speed with Moore’s style of play and also his match fitness for senior football.

Moore believes he has unfinished business with Rovers and expects supporters will be excited about Lokilo’s potential following his brief appearance earlier in the year.

“Just before the lockdown everyone saw a bit of a cameo of what he could do,” Moore said.

“He’s got wonderful feet, tight control, he’s blessed with speed, he’s got great quality on the ball.

“We saw a small snapshot when he put the cross in for the goal against Wycombe before the lockdown.

“If we get him in the right positions, I think he can score goals for the football club.

“I’m really pleased to have him back.

“For him, I think he has unfinished business with the club.

“He has the platform to continue that now and let’s hope he grasps it with both hands.”

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