Richie Wellens began his career at Manchester United but left after making only one senior appearances. In March 2000 he signed for Blackpool and in five years there established himself as one of the outstanding players in League One. Two seasons at Oldham Athletic, who reached the play-offs in 2006-07, merely served to confirm his standing.
In July 2007, Rovers signed the combative and talented midfielder and he missed only one game in the 2007-08 League campaign, and despite struggling with an injury he starred in the League One Play-off campaign, culminating in success in the Wembley final against Leeds United. After proving highly influential in keeping Rovers in the Championship during the 2008-09 season he moved on to Leicester City for over £1,000,000 in 2009.
After four seasons at Leicester, who finished as high as fifth in the Championship, he returned to Rovers in 2013, following their promotion to the Championship. He produced some outstanding displays and his injury towards the end of the campaign was a massive blow to Rovers’ chances of keeping their place, which were ultimately dashed on the final day of the season. He remained at the Keepmoat until January 2016, when he moved to Shrewsbury Town. He had a spell as manager of his former club, Oldham Athletic, and is now in charge of Swindon Town.
Rovers Debut: 11th August 2007, League One vs. Millwall (home) drew 0-0.
Final game: 7th November 2015, FA Cup 1st Round vs. Stalybridge Celtic (home) won 2-0.
Career: Football League: 172 appearances, 12 goals. All senior games: 199 appearances, 15 goals
Honours: League One Play-off final winner 2007-08.