Southampton midfielder Josh Sims has returned to Doncaster Rovers for a second loan spell.
Sims initially joined in October for the first three months of the season, before recently returning to Southampton.
A deal has been agreed for Sims to see out the remainder of the season at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Josh Sims Returns to Doncaster Rovers on Loan
✍️ Seems like you’ve all been paying attention..
Welcome back Josh Sims! #SimsAnnouncedhttps://t.co/Y8spkcPO8a #DRFC pic.twitter.com/VLAZmYb17D
— Doncaster Rovers FC (@drfc_official) January 27, 2021
First Spell
Sims, 23, has made 27 senior appearances for his parent-club but seems to be out of manager Ralph Hasenhuttl‘s plans. Since joining Doncaster on loan, Sims has had a fine impact on their promotion-chasing campaign in League One. The Yeovil-born winger scored one league goal and assisted seven, contributing to Rovers sitting in fourth-place. He also scored two goals in the FA Cup – though had left before Doncaster were eliminated by West Ham United on Saturday, January 23.
Sims is evidently a player of great value at the level and Doncaster Rovers are sure to receive a boost in their promotion chances with his return.
His return represents Doncaster Rovers’ fourth addition of the transfer window, following the arrivals of Ellery Balcombe, Elliot Simoes and John Bostock.
Sims’ return was anticipated to greater effect following the departure of club captain Ben Whiteman in recent weeks.
Championship Interest
Sims had returned to Southampton slightly earlier than planned after picking up a hamstring injury. The winger has elected to return to Doncaster Rovers despite having received interest from the Championship.
With his contract coming to an end, it was expected that Southampton would look to cash-in on him this month, leaving Doncaster with little chance of bringing him back. However, Sims was reportedly unattracted by the offers he received from the second-tier and preferred a return to Rovers – something Southampton have eventually allowed to happen.
Without him, Doncaster have managed to continue the winning form – four of their five league games to be precise. Though with Sims on the ranks, they pose a far greater threat. With that said, they will remain without him for the time being as he has yet to recover to full fitness. Sims is expected to join training on Monday, February 1 and be available for action by mid-February.
Sims will continue to wear the number 20 shirt for Rovers.
Main Photo
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