Doncaster Rovers have received a timely boost to their preparations for the new Sky Bet League One season with midfielder Robbie Gotts returning to training this week. The 26-year-old had been sidelined by a thigh injury sustained during pre-season last month but is now back in contention ahead of Saturday's opening fixture against Mansfield Town.

Manager Grant McCann confirmed Gotts trained well upon his return and expressed optimism about having him available for the trip to One Call Stadium. "Robbie Gotts has been back training this week and trained well, which is really good for us," McCann said.

Mixed Injury Update

The picture across the squad remains mixed. Summer signing Frankie Okoronkwo has also been stepping up his rehabilitation on the training pitches, though McCann cautioned against rushing his recovery. "Frankie Okoronkwo has been back on the training pitches, it's just about building him back up now, we won't be rushing him back," the boss said.

Matty Pearson's injury situation has not improved, leading McCann to give him time away to reset. James Husband was also given a few days off but has since returned to pushing his recovery and has improved his health rehab, though he will not be available for the weekend.

Mansfield Test Ahead

Rovers travel to Mansfield with confidence after claiming victory on their last visit to One Call Stadium, when Owen Bailey scored a brace in a late win. Rovers took three points from their two meetings with Mansfield last season.

McCann is eager to replicate that success and reward the travelling supporters. "Our last trip to Mansfield was a brilliant day, it was great to win the game so late on, especially with the fans behind the goal. We know our away fans are going to travel in good numbers again, so it would be great to reward them with another game to remember," he said.

The manager acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting Mansfield's strength under Nigel Clough. "We know it will be a tough game, Nigel Clough's teams are always hard to play against, I have a lot of respect for him and his staff. There are at least 15 teams in the division this season who will think they have a chance of pushing towards the top of it and I think Mansfield are one of them."

Kick-off at One Call Stadium is at 3pm on Saturday 15 August. Rovers' home campaign begins the following weekend against Barnsley at Club Doncaster Sports Village. Tickets for the Mansfield fixture remain available.