Blackpool duo explain their reasons for Rotherham United switch

Blackpool have been dealt a major blow with the news that key players Clark Robertson and Kyle Vassell have left to join Rotherham United.
Clark Robertson and Kyle Vassell have both swapped Blackpool for Rotherham UnitedClark Robertson and Kyle Vassell have both swapped Blackpool for Rotherham United
Clark Robertson and Kyle Vassell have both swapped Blackpool for Rotherham United

The duo, who played a leading role for the Seasiders over the past couple of seasons, have signed three-year deals with the Millers.

Robertson held talks with Sunderland but the 24-year-old had his sights set on a move to the Championship to give him the best possible chance of a call-up to the Scottish national team.

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The 24-year-old joined the Seasiders in the summer of 2015 from his hometown club Aberdeen and went on to make almost 100 appearances.

Like Vassell, he starred during Pool’s promotion from League Two during the 2016/17 campaign before helping Gary Bowyer’s men finish 12th place in League One last season.

“I’m absolutely buzzing to get it done, it’s been a long time coming to be fair,” Robertson said.

“The manager (Paul Warne) is enthusiastic about everything and he was just desperate to get me into the door and when you feel that wanted, it makes you want to come to the club.

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“There’s a good group of players here and you can’t complain about the facilities. I played here on the last game of the season and the pitch was in great nick.

“We had two tough games against them last season and it was clear they’re a good football side.

“I think it’s the right step in my career. The last two years at Blackpool have probably been the best two years of my career so far.

“Coming here now is the right fit for me and the right time. Hopefully I will develop even further.

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“The chance to play in the Championship was massive for me. I had other offers in League One but I’ve got to test myself in this league now, which I feel I’m ready to do.

“With the season I had last season, I feel as though I’m more than ready for that.”

Vassell, meanwhile, was linked to Pool’s League One rivals Southend United but he has also opted to make the move to South Yorkshire.

Pool’s top scorer for the last two season, the 25-year-old departs having scored 24 goals in 71 appearances during his time at Bloomfield Road.

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“I’m delighted to be here. It’s a great club and a great opportunity for me,” Vassell said.

“It’s a great club that is going places. The manager has said he is going to get the best out of me and that’s very important.

“I’ve never played in the Championship but it’s always been one of my goals. To get the opportunity to do so is massive for me.

“Me and Clark have been good pals at Blackpool for the last couple of years, so the fact the gaffer has signed another player like that means it’s going to be a great changing room.”