Not a reappraisal, just an acknowledgement of Grant McCann's impact on Doncaster Rovers

It is true that the final impression a person makes can overshadow all the memories they helped to create before.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Grant McCann is proof of that.

The manner in which he departed Doncaster Rovers 18 months ago saw him written off by so many of the club’s supporters despite the superb season he had overseen.

In the emotion-led world of football, bitterness towards McCann is certainly understandable.

Grant McCannGrant McCann
Grant McCann
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Certainly his reputation was not aided by his own comments about loyalty and stomach for the fight. In particular, his very public criticism of Danny Andrew’s actions during contract negotiations did not stand up well to scrutiny after his own departure.

Asking for a reappraisal of the man ahead of Rovers’ first competitive reunion with their former boss would be a pointless exercise. Talking at length about a person who had consistently been straight up, honest and helpful with the local journalist would be a waste of time.

But the manner of his departure should not be allowed to blot out the achievement of his single season at the Keepmoat.

He accelerated the upward curve Rovers were on following promotion from League Two, powered by an ultra attacking, fearless brand of attacking football.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And it brought great success. An unfancied side powered into the top six, edging ahead of other clubs for whom a play-off place was expected, or demanded.

They were so close to capping the achievement with a trip to Wembley, only for the lottery of a penalty shootout to bring heartbreak at the end of a night of football at Charlton Athletic that was typical of the best of what the previous nine months had brought.

It proved to be the last dance for McCann and numerous major characters in the Rovers side.

But his influence would continue - particularly with Ben Whiteman, whose emergence into the dominating midfielder he has blossomed into began under the Belfast man’s wing.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And the style of play made the transition into life under Darren Moore more smooth than it may have been, even if there are plenty of differences.

McCann may not be the most popular figure at Rovers, but he should be remembered as a success and important manager in the club’s recent history.

*

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.