Rovers Sign Sean Thornton and Phillip McGuire

Sean Thornton was playing for Sunderland in the summer of 2002. The Drogheda-born midfielder, who was voted the Irish Under-19's 'player of the year', played well in his first season for Sunderland. He was loaned out to Blackpool early in the 2002-2003 season went back after a month to make his mark with the Black Cats. Thornton became a first-team regular under Mick McCarthys reign, he injured his ankle just before Christmas which ruled him out for about three months. Sean has played for Ireland from under-15's to the Irish under-21's level and has been reserved for the senior squad.

He said, "Doncaster are an ambitious club who have fantastic training facilities and a new stadium on the way. McGuire's contract with Pittodrie has just ended and he had to think long and hard about where he wanted to play next.

Rovers have also signed 25-year-old Aberdeen defender Phillip McGuire who has made about 130 appearances for the SPL club since joining them in 1997. The Glasgow born Phil will strengthen the defence ahead of this campaign and will bring further experience to the squad. Phil joins us after turning down around about 15 other clubs to join the fantastic Rovers. He said, "Doncaster are an ambitious club who have fantastic training facilities and a new stadium on the way". McGuire's contract with Pittodrie has just ended and he had to think long and hard about where he wanted to play next. He comments, "It was nice to have so many clubs interested in me but I have always been keen on playing down south. I'm going to gain a lot of experience playing in England and I'm looking forward to the new challenge."

John Ryan said about the record signing, "This shows our determination to Go for it this season by making this the best squad that Rovers have ever had."

He also said he will be looking to sign more players of their calibre.