Bristol Rovers' Ryan De Havilland Loan Move Opportunity and Steve Evans' Verdict

Bristol Rovers midfielder Ryan De Havilland was offered a loan move last week, but didn't pursue it, according to manager Steve Evans. The 25-year-old played 350 minutes in pre-season, but with the arrivals of central midfielders Keenan Gough and Reiss Russell-Denny, his task to get into the team has just been made harder.

What happened?

Bristol Rovers manager Steve Evans has revealed that Ryan De Havilland was given an opportunity to "go out on loan" last week, but didn't pursue it, with the midfielder absent from the squad during Saturday's 1-0 defeat against Peterborough United.

Why it matters for Bristol Rovers

The 25-year-old played 350 minutes in pre-season, but with the arrivals of central midfielders Keenan Gough and Reiss Russell-Denny, his task to get into the team has just been made harder. Following these two signings, Bristol Live asked Evans where these new additions leave De Havilland. The manager said: "Well, Ryan was given an opportunity to go out on loan in midweek and didn't pursue it. That's Ryan's, of course, decision.

What comes next?

The 25-year-old was Evans' first signing in January, and he went on to feature 20 times for the Gas in the second half of last season. Despite some bright performances in the early part of his time in the blue and white quarters, De Havilland has struggled to nail down a starting spot. He did start two of the last three games in the 2025/26 campaign, but was withdrawn at half-time against Notts County on the final day after a shaky first 45.

Recent form

Bristol Rovers are currently 14th in England League Two, 62 points, 19W-5D-22L from 46 games, recent form DWWWW. They have scored 56 goals this season and conceded 65, with a goal difference of -9. They are 25 points behind leaders Bromley in the title race. Their last result was a 2-2 draw against Forest Green on July 21. They have been unbeaten in their last 5 games, with a recent form of 2W-3D-0L (DDDWW, most recent first).

Next fixture

Bristol Rovers' next fixture is away to York City on August 15. With the arrivals of central midfielders Keenan Gough and Reiss Russell-Denny, it remains to be seen whether De Havilland will eventually leave on loan in this transfer window.