Signing of Charlie Seaman 'keeps alive spirit of Doncaster Rovers' U23s plan'

Darren Moore says the method behind the signing of Charlie Seaman will allow Doncaster Rovers to continue to develop young talent despite the scrapping of the club’s U23s section.
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The financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the club led to the decision to disband the development squad, with the release of the majority of players in the age group.

But Moore remains committed to unearthing young players and offering them the opportunity to develop their game with Rovers.

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Right back Seaman, 21, signed a one-year deal with Rovers on Thursday and was immediately loaned to National League South side Maidstone United.

Charlie SeamanCharlie Seaman
Charlie Seaman

Rovers hold the option of extending his contract by a year should the former Bournemouth youngster impress while he gains more senior football experience at Maidstone.

“With the different circumstances with the U23s this year, he would certainly have been someone who would ideally have fitted into that programme,” Moore said.

“We’re pleased to secure his services and also secure him the loan to Maidstone that gets him that first team opportunity to develop.

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“Part of the reason he has gone to Maidstone is to play those matches and make sure his body is more robust for the demands of the league.

“We didn’t want Charlie to come here and just sitting. Those match minutes are far more important.

“Hopefully he’ll get that at Maidstone and he’ll develop there. As a football club we’ll keep a close eye on him.

“He adds competition and cover at right back. We;ve been very happy with Brad Halliday and I’m sure Charlie will stake a claim over the weeks and months as he develops.”

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Moore had overseen a change of direction with the U23s last season which would have seen talent developed through the Rovers academy bolstered by free agents being handed a second chance to break into senior professional football.

Multiple players spent time on trial with Rovers in a bid to earn a place in the development squad, including Harrison Myring - who did sign a short term contract following his release by Leicester City - and former Watford forward Dion Pereira.

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