For Reiss Russell-Denny, when Bristol Rovers showed their interest in his signature, there was only one option.
The 20-year-old midfielder switched to the Gas on loan from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, becoming the second Spurs loanee to move to BS7 in 2026.
One conversation seemed to be vital. As soon as Russell-Denny spoke to Yusuf Akhamrich, who netted six goals in 19 Sky Bet League Two appearances for Rovers last term, his mind was made up.
Chatting to BRTV for the first time since his move to the Gas, Russell-Denny spoke about his excitement after making the first loan move of his career and cannot wait to play in front of the Gasheads.
So, Reiss, first of all, welcome to Bristol Rovers Football Club. How good does it feel to be here?
"It's great, I'm so excited. I just can't wait to get started and see the fans."
What were those first conversations with Steve like?
"They were really positive. I had interest elsewhere, and I just felt after meeting him, this was the place for me."
What made you know that Bristol Rovers was the right step in your career?
"Yeah, my friend Yusuf obviously came here in January, and he had a really good time. I spoke with him and only heard good things, so it was a no-brainer."
And for you, it's your first professional loan move as well, so what are you expecting?
"I'm just excited to see the fans, play in front of the Bristol Rovers fans, and learn — just become a better player."
What made you know that Bristol Rovers is the right step in your career?
"Yeah, I just know the fans are great. I’ve played Bristol Rovers before; I had a really good time, and I just feel like this will be the right place for me."
And this is the first professional loan in your career as well, so how excited are you for that?
"Yeah, so excited. The Bristol Rovers fans seem amazing. Can't wait to see them. So yeah, just excited to get going."
You're the second Spurs loanee in a matter of years. Obviously, we had Yusuf last year. Did you speak to him much before the move?
"Yeah, of course. The manager spoke to Yusuf before speaking to me to make sure where my head was, and as soon as Yusuf asked me if I wanted to come, I was thinking, yeah, for sure."
And you played at the Memorial Stadium before. What was that like? I remember you played really well.
"Yeah, it was a really good experience. It was a crazy game, and I just can't wait to have some more."
For the fans who are going to see a lot of you, what type of player are you?
"I'm a hardworking, quality player, and I just like to make things happen.
And what about the changing room? What will you bring to that?
"I'm a very chill person, but I'm sure I'll be busting a few jokes here and there."
And you’re joining just before the start of the season as well, so how excited are you to start playing?
"Yeah, it was really nice to get this done in the summer so I can have a full season here and just get going with my career."
What's it going to be like stepping out in front of a full Mem pitch for the first time?
Yeah, so excited. I can't wait for that, really. Just can't wait to get in front of the fans and enjoy it."
