Doncaster Rovers winger Glenn Middleton has left the club to join Rochdale on a permanent transfer. The 26-year-old's move to the League Two side, for an undisclosed fee, was confirmed this week.
Manager Grant McCann stated the decision was mutual. "Glenn and the club have come to a decision that we believe is best for both parties, allowing him to move elsewhere and pursue regular first-team football," McCann said. He added, "We are grateful for the work he's put in during his time here and we hope he enjoys plenty of success with Rochdale." Middleton had been listed for a transfer since late spring following the announcement of the club's retained list at the end of last season.
Glenn Middleton joined Doncaster Rovers last summer from Scottish Premiership side Dundee United. The former Scotland under-21 international went on to make 45 appearances across all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign. His career prior to his move to England included spells with Glasgow Rangers, Hibernian, and St Johnstone. His departure opens up a squad place and potentially frees up resources within the wage budget as McCann shapes his group for the current League One season.
The exit of Middleton follows the deadline day arrival of experienced striker James Collins on loan from Championship newcomers Lincoln City. Collins' loan agreement is set to run until the January transfer window, providing a short-term boost to the attacking options. These moves come as Doncaster Rovers seek to improve their early season form. After four games, they sit 20th in the League One table with three points from four draws and one loss, a sequence reflected in a DDDL form line. The team has scored four goals and conceded five, giving them a minus-one goal difference.
The club currently finds itself seven points behind early leaders Huddersfield Town. Attention now turns swiftly to the next challenge at the Eco-Power Stadium. Doncaster Rovers are scheduled to host Plymouth Argyle on Saturday, September 5th. Plymouth, positioned 16th in the table, will provide another tough test as McCann's side looks to secure a first win of the season. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures hub.
The focus for the management will be integrating new signings like James Collins and utilising the full depth of the squad to climb the table. The next opportunity to do so arrives this weekend against Plymouth Argyle.
