Keenan Gough’s Impact in a 5‑3 Victory
Steve Evans praised the Charlton Athletic loanee after Bristol Rovers’ 5‑3 win against Newport County. Gough, 20, has started the first two League Two games for the Gas and was described as a “young man who will play a lot of Championship football going forward”.
Early Rovers Appearances
Gough made his Rovers debut in the Carabao Cup first round against Peterborough United. He earned a first start at York City, where Evans said he was “head and shoulders above anything in the whole of York”. Despite a few “sloppy moments” in training, Evans highlighted Gough’s calmness in possession and ball‑winning ability.
Charlton Background
The 20‑year‑old joined Charlton at Under‑9s level and captained the Under‑18s Professional Development League Two – South title in the 2023/24 season. He has played only five first‑team games for the Addicks, including three Championship appearances and a start against Chelsea in the FA Cup.
Manager’s Praise
Evans said, “He’s got the abilities, discipline, technique and attitude. He just can’t get sloppy. If he does, he goes out.” He added that Gough will return to Charlton next summer and is “sure to go back to the Charlton first‑team for sure”.
Upcoming Fixtures
Gough’s next matches for the Gas are an EFL Trophy game against Chelsea Under‑21s on Tuesday and a League Two trip to Crawley Town on Saturday.
