Doncaster Rovers sign midfielder Harry Clifton

Doncaster Rovers have confirmed the signing of midfielder Harry Clifton on a two-year deal, with an option for an additional 12 months.

The 25-year-old joins from his hometown club, Grimsby Town, where he has spent his entire career, amassing over 260 appearances.

“I’m really pleased to get this finalised and meet people around the club,” Clifton said.

“I can’t wait to get going. I had good conversations with the gaffer and it’s got me really excited for next season.”

Clifton, who came through the ranks at Blundell Park, made his senior debut in 2017 in an EFL Trophy tie against Rovers.

The former Wales U21 international has been a mainstay for the Mariners over the last six seasons, five of which were in Sky Bet League Two, with the other bringing promotion from the National League via the play-offs.

Rovers boss Grant McCann expressed his enthusiasm for the new signing.

“I’m delighted to get Harry. He’s a player we’ve always liked,” McCann said.

“He plays with energy and bite and he’s a really good footballer who can arrive late and score goals. He can play in all three positions in our midfield. Most of all, he’s a really good character who will fit right into our changing room. At 25 he’s at a great age to kick on and be a part of what we’re trying to do.”

Clifton becomes the club’s third new signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Joe Sbarra and Jordan Gibson.

Clifton shared his thoughts on joining Rovers, highlighting the importance of feeling that it was the right move.

“I felt that for me to move it had to be right and feel right,” he said.

“I got that straight away here and I just want to repay that to the gaffer, the team, and the fans to show it was the right decision and why I’m so excited to be here.”

Leaving Grimsby Town, where he had spent his entire footballing life, was not an easy choice for Clifton. However, the positive feeling he had about Doncaster Rovers helped him make the decision.

“I just feel like for my career that I needed a bit of a change and a fresh challenge,” Clifton added.

Reflecting on his move, Clifton said, “I think it’s how you grow as a person, getting out of your comfort zone. I’ve been with Grimsby ten years, going into the same training ground. I felt like to grow as a person and help my career as well, I needed to do that.”

Clifton is optimistic about his new challenge. “It seems a great place to play football and work and I’m sure I’ll find my feet straight away. I’m at the stage where I’m at a pivotal age. The timing felt right to have a fresh challenge. It’s not going to be easy and it’s one where I’m going to need to give my absolute all, which I’m ready to do,” he concluded.