Doncaster Rovers' boss Grant McCann has offered a glowing appraisal of new signing Leon Ayinde, saying the 21-year-old winger has the tools to be a real asset for the club as they step up preparations for the coming season.
First signing of the summer catching the eye
Ayinde, who arrived at the Eco-Power Stadium from Ipswich Town, has already shown encouraging signs during pre-season. He featured on Rovers' warm-weather tour of Ireland and opened his account by scoring in one of those matches. His loan spells last season at Rochdale and Boreham Wood, including an appearance in the National League play-off final, were part of what prompted Rovers to move for him.
"I think any of the fans that came out to Ireland would have seen what he's about,"
McCann praised Ayinde's physical attributes and mentality, highlighting his pace, power and work-rate in training. The manager says the winger's off-the-ball qualities are excellent and that fine-tuning his final actions in the attacking third is the next step.
Two friendlies give players further opportunity
On Saturday the squad will be split to play two warm-up fixtures. McCann has indicated the double-header will provide chances for a number of players to stake a claim for the first-team squad ahead of the new campaign.
- Harrogate — kick-off 12:00
- Gainsborough — kick-off 16:00
Those not involved in Saturday’s matches include Frankie Okoronkwo, who continues his recovery from injury, and Glenn Middleton, who will not feature in any of the warm-up games amid speculation over his future. Wing-man Luke Molyneux is also highly unlikely to play after reportedly turning down a new contract offer.
What McCann sees in Ayinde
McCann highlighted Ayinde's versatility; while he operated predominantly on the right for Boreham Wood, Rovers have used him on the left and the manager says he has adapted well. Emphasis was placed on the player's high-speed running, acceleration and defensive work-rate, traits the coaching staff have valued during the early sessions.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Leon Ayinde, 21 |
| Previous club | Ipswich Town |
| Loan clubs last season | Rochdale, Boreham Wood |
| Saturday friendlies | Harrogate (12:00), Gainsborough (16:00) |
This period of friendly matches is designed to build match sharpness and clarify squad options. For supporters, the coming fixtures will be an early chance to see how Ayinde settles into Rovers' style and whether he can translate his promise into consistent contributions on the pitch.
