ROSSITER: We missed Doyle last season

ALUN ROSSITER admitted that the return of Jason Doyle to the Swindon Robins gives his side a big boost going into next season. TotalSport Swindon’s Ryan Walker spoke to the manager to get his thoughts on the clubs latest signing.

Having spent last season racing for the Somerset Rebels, Doyle’s welcome return brings with it a renewed sense of optimism as Swindon target the 2019 Premiership title.

And when asked about the move, Rossiter explained how it was a simple process to re-sign the former World Champion.

“He’s our asset, and we have first call on his services,” said Rossiter 

“He’s a rider that brings a lot to the club.

“When a rider goes somewhere people think there is always an issue,” he added.

“We dealt with his departure face-to-face and I think things are a lot better.

“His move just goes to show that British speedway is still alive,” he said.

Finishing the season with an average of 9.80, Doyle’s coup takes a large chunk out of the Robins 42.5 overall team average. 

And whilst Rossiter admitted this, he highlighted how well Doyle fitted into the side in 2017 despite having the leagues largest average.

“It is tricky to get right balance but it’s great to have Jason back,” said Rossiter.

“Look back to 2017 and we had to work with a 13 point average then.

“We missed out on someone consistently scoring big points last season,” he added.

“We know he [Doyle] will lose some races at times but 9 times out of 10 he will get the win.

“I’m confident that with Jason at the top we will be fighting for the title,” said the manager.

The arrival of a big name rider provides a massive boost to both the club and British speedway.

However, the signing represents a poignant point that either Nick Morris or Troy Batchelor will now depart from the Abbey, something that Rossiter tentatively confirmed.

“Potentially yes, [either Nick or Troy will leave],” stated Rossiter.

 “We can’t fit everyone into the team but we always try to keep riders.

 “There were people not keen for Troy to come to Swindon last season but he did a great job for us.

“Nick is still our rider until I say otherwise,” he said.