Dapo Afolayan Sets Out Blackburn Rovers Aim After Pre-Season
Dapo Afolayan reckons he can be like a new signing for Rovers this season after a difficult start to his time at Ewood Park. Afolayan joined in January but had to be patient for opportunities after Valerien Ismael departed and Michael O'Neill took charge.
The winger is now feeling the benefits of a full pre-season in Lancashire and was named in Tony Mowbray's starting line-up at Burton Albion. "I have been in football a long time now and I know that things happen which are out of your control," he told RoversTV. "It wasn't the smoothest transition into this club for me. But it was good for me to come in this year as more or less a new signing and having been in the building, get to know the boys, get to know the culture of the place and where we want to adapt things.
"Hopefully, this year I can help the team a lot more than I did last year." Afolayan was already used to life up North, having spent a couple of years at Bolton Wanderers before moving to Germany in 2023.
What Happened?
Afolayan joined Blackburn Rovers in January but had to wait for opportunities under new manager Michael O'Neill. He has now been named in Tony Mowbray's starting line-up and is eager to make a difference.
Why it Matters for Blackburn Rovers
Afolayan's determination to make a difference this season is a boost for the team. With a clean slate following Tony Mowbray's return to Ewood Park, Rovers are looking to make a strong start to the season.
What Comes Next?
Afolayan is excited to work under Tony Mowbray and is looking forward to helping the team achieve its goals. With a fresh start and a new approach, Rovers are hoping to provide entertaining football for their fans.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 20th in Championship, 52 pts, 13W-13D-20L from 46 games, recent form LWDLD. Goals this season: 42 scored, 56 conceded (-14 goal difference). Title race: 43 points behind leaders Coventry.
