Experienced midfielder becomes summer signing number six
Experienced midfielder Andy Monkhouse today became manager Darrell Clarke's sixth summer signing.
Monkhouse, born in Leeds, began his career as a trainee with Rotherham United and went on to score nine goals in 128 league appearances for the Millers.
He joined Swindon Town in June 2006, but injury meant that he but only made 10 league appearances for the Robins and he spent time on loan at Hartlepool United before signing a permanent deal at the Victoria Ground in January 2007.
A member of the side that gained promotion to League One at the end of the 2006/07 campaign, he was also named in the PFA League Two Team of the Year that season.
Released by Hartlepool in the summer he scored 44 goals in 290 league games for the club and appearances in other competitions took his total appearances to 322.
Darrell said of his new signing; “I am delighted to bring in an experienced player such as Andy.
“I was looking for two experienced recruits in the summer and with Andy and Lee Mansell I now have those.
“They have both come for the right reasons and are hungry for success.
“Andy is a creative player who can score a goal or two and he’s had a very successful, career to date.
“The pleasing thing is that he wanted to come here for the right reasons and his experience will be invaluable to us.”
Andy himself said he was pleased to be here and is looking forward to the challenge of helping Rovers regain their league status.
“I have spoken to Darrell a few times and, to be honest, he didn’t have to say too much to me because it didn’t take long to agree terms to join a club the size of Bristol Rovers.
“I’m happy to be here and can’t wait to get started. I’ve played against Rovers a few times over the years and I know what it’s like playing at the Memorial Stadium as an away player.
“I’m coming here with a fresh approach and hope we have a successful season and that we can get back into the Football League.
Chairman Nick Higgs said; “I am delighted to welcome Andy Monkhouse to the club and hope he enjoys a successful time with us.
“He brings with him a wealth of experience and will be a valuable addition to Darrell’s first team squad.