Rovers manager Grant McCann believes Cliff Byrne will bring a real determination to the club, after securing his services as assistant.
Byrne will act as No.2 to the new boss, with the pair getting stuck into the first week of pre-season training for 2018/19.
McCann said: “He has all the characteristics you need to be a good coach, and Sunderland didn’t want to lose him. He brings hunger and determination, he is a fighter and a winner.
“I want people here who want to work hard, and Cliff is that. He is different to me, but knows what I’m about and the way I want to play, and will be really good to have alongside me.”
Rovers acted quickly to get Byrne into the club, with the Dubliner able to start work by joining in Friday morning’s training sessions.
McCann added: “He was desperate to come once I made the phone call, he was ready to jump in the car straight away. He is ready to hit the ground running with me.
“We know people like John Schofield from Scunthorpe and Kieran Scarff from Peterborough, so we’re really excited about getting stuck in.”
Rovers kick-off their Sky Bet League One campaign at Southend United on Saturday August 4, before their first home outing against Wycombe Wanderers the following Saturday.
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