Doncaster Rovers are searching for their first League One win after a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign. The club has taken just three points from its opening five matches, leaving it 22nd in the table and nine points adrift of leaders Sheffield Wednesday.
A busy summer saw eleven new arrivals and several key departures reshape the squad. The most eye-catching deadline day move was the loan signing of experienced striker James Collins from Lincoln City. Collins, who has 230 career goals and three League One promotions, is recovering from an ACL injury sustained last December. His probable return is pencilled in for October or November. Manager Grant McCann also brought back a familiar face in Alfie May on a season-long loan. May, who scored 89 League One goals across the last five seasons, previously played for Rovers between 2017 and 2020.
Isaac Hutchinson arrived as the club's marquee signing, commanding the biggest fee since Ben Whiteman. The attacking midfielder, hailed as 'seriously talented' by those at his former club Cheltenham, netted 20 goals last season and has two early strikes for Rovers. Defensive reinforcements came in the form of James Husband, returning nearly 12 years after winning promotion with the club in 2013, and Neill Byrne, who signed permanently after a successful loan. Goalkeeper Tommy Simkin joined on loan from Stoke City, bringing Championship experience and England Under-20 international pedigree.
The summer also featured significant exits. Winger Luke Molyneux, who contributed to 19 goals last term, was sold to Salford City after the hierarchy failed to convince the 28-year-old to sign a new deal. This prevented him from leaving on a free transfer in twelve months. The attacking options were further impacted by the long-term injury to Francis Okoronkwo. McCann stated plainly about Okoronkwo's potential: "If Frankie is fit we don't sign him. There's no question. He goes to the Championship."
The underlying numbers highlight the team's struggles in front of goal. Rovers have managed only 16 shots on target so far, the third-lowest tally in the division. They have scored six goals while conceding eight, resulting in a minus-two goal difference. This offensive shortfall is a primary reason for the winless run, which currently stands at five league games. Supporters can track the team's progress in the standings and review individual stats as the season develops.
The immediate focus is on securing that elusive first victory. The next opportunity comes quickly with an away trip to face AFC Wimbledon on September 12th. Wimbledon currently sit 15th in the table, presenting a tough but winnable fixture for McCann's reshaped squad. The full schedule of upcoming matches is available on the club's fixtures page. The loan deal for James Collins runs until January, giving the veteran striker a clear timeframe to make his impact.
