Doncaster Rovers: Former Newcastle United youngster Jamie Sterry tipped to make big impact when fit

Defender Sterry, who arrived from Hartlepool this summer, has not featured for Doncaster since their opening-day defeat to Harrogate due to a foot injury and is still weeks away from a return to action.

The 27-year-old has struggled with injuries previously in his career but managed more than a century of appearances in his two and a half years with Hartlepool.

When fit, there is no doubting former Newcastle United youngster Sterry's ability.

He played eight times at senior level for the Magpies, including a substitute cameo in the Premier League, and caught the eye with his pre-season displays at right-back for Rovers.

Speaking earlier this year, Sterry’s former boss at Hartlepool, John Askey, said: “If you’ve got a fully fit Jamie Sterry he’s as good as you’re going to get in this league and arguably he can play higher with the ability he’s got.”

Bailey, who played alongside Sterry at Newcastle, told The Free Press: “I would definitely back that up and he will be backing himself as well.

"He will be ready to do the talking with his feet when he’s back.”

Such was Sterry’s commitment to making his move down south a success, he relocated to Doncaster with his young family following his move on a two-year deal.

Bailey added: “I’m really close with Jamie off the pitch and on it. I know how much he’s ready to go and just wants to be back.

"He’s had a frustrating period he so far. He knows how much quality he has got and how much he can add to the team. He is really raring to go.”

Sterry, who turns 28 next month, was reportedly the subject of interest from big-spending Stockport County in January before they signed Kyle Knoyle from Rovers.

Bailey, who has also relocated to Doncaster following his summer arrival from Gateshead, said: “I can see behind the scenes how hard he is working every day to get back as fit as possible and as quick as possible.

"I’m looking forward to him being back as much as he is.”

Meanwhile, Rovers’ upcoming opponents Grimsby Town have sold around 3,000 tickets for Saturday’s clash at the Eco-Power Stadium.