Anthony Evans signs a new deal with Bristol Rovers

Bristol Rovers have confirmed that Anthony Evans has put pen to paper on a new contract which runs until 2025.

The Everton academy graduate was a crucial part of a promotion-winning side last term, registering 10 goals and 12 assists during a breakthrough campaign for the young midfielder.

The news of his contract extension has been met with jubilation from the Rovers faithful, contrasting with Evans’ low-profile arrival on deadline day last summer after his contract was terminated by Bundesliga 2 side Paderborn.

Evans has quickly put disappointing spells in Germany and on loan at Crewe behind him, impressing massively with his set-piece ability and long-range threat, with a particularly stunning strike against Barrow winning the club’s goal of the season award.

The contract extension represents a first major step towards achieving manager Joey Barton’s primary objective this summer of retaining their top talents heading into League One. Barton had last month placed 10-day deadline for resolving Evans’ contract situation, warning that he needed time to prepare replacements if a deal couldn’t be agreed.

Negotiations have taken longer than planned, likely down to the player being under new agency that were keen to significantly improve on his previous deal, in which Barton stated the player was being “massively underpaid” relative to his contribution in BS7. Along with this, Evans had many third-tier outfits interested in securing his services which had to be considered before committing his future at the Memorial Stadium.

The Verdict

In a summer where retaining their key players is vital, Bristol Rovers have completed an excellent piece of business by contracting Evans for a further 3 years.

This is a clear indication of the ambition of the club going into League One next term, whilst showing with Wael al-Qadi’s investment The Gas can offer competitive salaries to attract in-demand players.

Positive announcements like this contract extension for Evans could also influence Elliot Anderson’s decision on whether to return for another loan spell from Newcastle, along with attracting other potential incomings.