Ryan struggling at Rovers

By Micky Monsoon
November 23 2004

Former Millwall left back Robbie Ryan has not found dropping down to League Two with Bristol Rovers an easy transition. His lack of pace maybe something to do with it, judging by the comments from his new boss - who still believes the Irishman will come good.

Bristol Rovers boss Ian Atkins said on Sky TV: “He’s struggled a little bit with the transition.

“In the first division they let you have the ball, they don’t put you under pressure at the back.

“But at our level, the ball’s transferred very quickly and people don’t give you time on the ball to get in play.

"And Robbie’s struggled a bit.”

Atkins, however, believes that in time Ryan will adjust.

Ryan had this to say about his departure from Millwall: “They [Millwall] said there’s a one year contract, take it or leave it.

“I asked for more money, they said ‘no‘.

“I asked for a two year deal for a bit of security, and they said ‘no‘.

“After six and a half years and over 250 games, I felt they showed no loyalty and I felt as if I wasn’t wanted.”