Bristol Rovers can win promotion this season under manager Steve Evans, according to former Premier League striker Dion Dublin. Dublin made the claim in an interview with Bristol Live, backing Evans to deliver success at the Memorial Stadium.
Dion Dublin said: "Can Steve Evans take Bristol Rovers up? Yes, 100%." The former Coventry and Aston Villa forward praised Evans's managerial record. He added: "I back any club he goes into because Steve’s brilliant at what he does, and he’s built a brilliant career as a football manager. Full stop."
Why is Dublin so confident?
Dublin's confidence is based on the strong start Bristol Rovers have made to the League Two campaign. The club sits top of the table with 12 points from five games, holding a two-point lead over Swindon Town. Their recent form reads four consecutive wins after an opening-day defeat, a sequence that has propelled them to the summit. You can see the full standings for the division.
What has changed under Steve Evans?
The transformation under Evans, who took charge in December 2025, has been significant. According to Bristol Live, the team has collected 57 points from 31 league matches since his arrival, averaging 1.84 points per game. That run included an unbeaten streak of nine matches to close the previous season, where they ultimately finished 14th. Evans then oversaw a summer rebuild, bringing in twelve new signings to strengthen the squad. The current squad reflects that overhaul.
What is the immediate challenge?
The immediate test is a trip to Blundell Park to face Grimsby Town. Evans himself acknowledged the difficulty of the fixture, describing David Artell's side as 'full of good players'. Historical data supports his caution, as Grimsby have won five of the last seven Football League meetings between the two clubs. Evans stated that if Bristol Rovers play at their best, they will win games. The team has scored 12 goals while conceding six so far this season, giving them a healthy goal difference.
Bristol Rovers' next match is against Grimsby Town, with the full schedule available on the club's fixtures page. The team will look to extend their winning run and stays at the top of League Two.
