Joey Barton sends message to Bristol Rovers kid after signing new contract
Ryan Jones, a teenager from Weston-super-Mare, has been with Bristol Rovers since 2020.
Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton believes Ryan Jones’ new contract is a reward for his performances on loan last season, and he challenges the young midfielder to continue improving under his tutelage.
Jones has signed a one-year deal in BS7, following fellow Gas youngster Harvey Greenslade, as his previous contract was set to expire at the end of the month. Jones, like Greenslade, spent most of the 2022/23 season on loan at Hungerford Town of the National League South.
Jones, who moved to north Bristol from Weston-super-Mare in 2020 after the Gas paid an unknown fee to sign him after a trial at Fulham, has struggled to entirely settle into one role.
Bristol Rovers’ pursuit of Everton defender Lewis Gibson has just become more tricky.
“We are pleased to offer Ryan a new contract,” Barton stated, praising the 21-year-old’s professionalism and dedication to his craft earlier.
“He performed admirably on loan last season, gaining valuable game time for young players, and this contract is a reward for his efforts.” He must continue to work hard, and he will improve as a result.”
Jones has made seven first-team appearances for the Gas in the FA Cup, League Cup, and EFL Trophy over the last two seasons, scoring in the latter against Exeter City, and has been a regular traveller with the senior squad on matchdays.
He is the fourth and final player on Rovers’ retained list to sign a new contract, following Greenslade, Grant Ward, and Josh Grant.
Similar to Greenslade, with Rovers’ pre-season campaign beginning on June 30 at Melksham Town with the Gas set to acquire new recruits throughout the summer, he should have opportunity to demonstrate to his manager how far he’s developed during his time away from the club.
“I’m overjoyed to have been offered a new contract after a successful season with National League South,” Jones stated. “Hopefully, I can now push on and prove myself to get a spot in the first team.” I can’t wait to learn even more from such an amazing group of guys and staff.”
Meanwhile, Rovers have announced a pre-season match against Brentford B on Saturday, July 15, with the venue yet to be determined, as their fourth summer friendly. As previously stated, the Gas open their season against Melksham Town on June 30 before traveling to National League Eastleigh on July 8.
They also play at Championship Swansea City on Tuesday, July 25, leaving the weekends of July 22 and 29 open, barring any additional midweek matches.
