We are pleased to announce that skipper Tom Lockyer today signed a new contract to extend his stay at The Memorial Stadium.
Cardiff born Lockyer won his first international cap for Wales this season, going on as a second half substitute against Panama in November.
Manager Darrell Clarke said of Lockyer’s decision to sign a new deal; “I am delighted that Tom has agreed to extend his stay with the club.
“It’s always pleasing to be able to retain the services of your best players and Tom certainly falls into that category.
“He is still only 23 and has played over 200 games for the club in all competitions, which is a fantastic achievement.
“A skipper who leads by example and who has been one of our most consistent players, Tom won his first Welsh cap earlier this season and I hope it’s the first of many for him.”
Tom said; “It was an easy decision. There were a few things to think about, obviously, but the main thing for me is to get back to my best, sign a new deal and put everything to one side and just concentrate on my football.”
Tom was released by Cardiff after spending time on their books as a schoolboy, and joined Rovers on a two year scholarship in the summer of 2011.
He was on the bench for the first team on a number of occasions in 2012/13, when still a second year scholar, and made his senior debut when going on as a late substitute in our 3-0 win at Fleetwood on 12th January 2013.
He ended that season with four substitute appearances to his name and signed his first professional contract in the summer of 2013.
A member of our 2012/13 successful U-18 side, Tom made his first start for the club in the home game against Watford, in the Capital One Cup on 6th August 2013, and made his first league start against Scunthorpe United four days later.
He scored his first senior Rovers goal against Northampton on 31st August.
A successful first season as a professional saw him make 47 appearances in all competitions and his progress was such that he signed a new contract in March 2014.
His outstanding form in his first season in the pro ranks saw him win the Supporters Club Young Player of the Year Award.
He appeared for the club in the Promotion Play Off Final at Wembley in 2015, and went on to earn seven Welsh U-21 caps before his elevation to the senior squad.
To date Tom has appeared in 201 league games for Rovers and scored three goals. In addition, he has also appeared in 21 games in all other competitions.