Rovers have announced that former MK Dons defender, Paul Downing, has exchanged his loan deal for a permanent one – for an undisclosed fee – after signing an 18-month contract with the club, which will see his deal expire in June 2019.
The former West Bromwich Albion defender was one of three deadline-day signings for Rovers back in the summer, after the 26-year old signed on loan for Tony Mowbray’s side until the end of the current campaign, however after a string of consistently impressive performances, which saw the centre-back notch-up 8 clean sheets and 1 goal in 18 appearances, alongside his defensive partner and Rovers’ captain Charlie Mulgrew, Rovers decided to take up their option of purchasing Downing. Additionally, the centre-back is currently undefeated in Rovers colours after notching up 12 wins and 6 draws in his 18 appearances.
As Downing’s contract was expiring at MK Dons, Tony Mowbray was clearly looking to sign the defender as soon as possible, which explains why a fee was agreed between the two clubs. The defender, who has helped Rovers’ defensive record improve since he joined the side, has been highly praised by both, his teammates and the fans, so the fans will be hoping that Downing’s good form continues now that his future is settled.
Speaking to the clubs’ media team, Downing said a few words after agreeing the deal; “It’s a great feeling to sign for this club. Ever since I signed on deadline-day in the summer, it’s been a goal of mine to sign permanently with the club. I’m pleased to have played as many games as I have done, as there’s a lot of competition for places, but I still feel that I have a lot of improvement to do. I would also like to thank the fans, who took to me since the day I walked in.”
The defender also heaped praise on Rovers’ gaffer, Tony Mowbray; “I was down in the pecking order at MK Dons and the manager’s allowed me the opportunity to come here and showcase my talent, so hopefully I’ve repaid his faith in me.”
