Taylor Richards ready for more responsibility with a big role to fill at Doncaster Rovers

With Ben Whiteman absent from the team ahead of his move to Preston North End, much of Rovers’ forward play in the FA Cup tie with Blackburn Rovers was directed through Richards.

And the Brighton and Hove Albion loanee says he will relish the responsibility if handed it in the second half of the season.

“There was no Ben so I felt like I needed to step up in midfield and try to make something happen,” he told the Free Press.

“That’s where I play on the pitch, to try to create things.

“Even though I feel that I could have done more with my touches - some of them were loose - I feel like I still did create a bit and we did well against a good side.”

Whiteman’s departure will see Rovers lose their top scorer this season, but that is also an area where Richards feels he can take up some of the burden.

The 20-year-old scored the only goal of the game in the win over Blackburn, and took his recent tally to two in his last three matches with both coming from outside the box.

“I didn’t realise how much space I was in,” he said of his goal at Ewood Park. “I looked back and no one was there.

“I was going to pass. I spoke to Tyreece and said I was going to pass to him but he said don’t.

“I took the shot and the keeper made a mistake but a goal is a goal.

“That’s what I’m trying to do - be more effective around the box.

“I’ve had two goals in the last three games from that sort of position so I’ve got to just keep working on it.”

Another standout aspect of his performance last weekend was his link-up play with striker Tyreece John-Jules.

And he revealed that relationship has developed over many years.

“I’ve known Ty for a long time since we were younger,” he said. “He’s my friend.

“Just to have that connection with him on the pitch, it makes it a lot easier.

“He’s a great player. It’s easy to connect with him.”

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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.