Hasani deal is Don for Heed
GATESHEAD have strengthened their squad ahead of tomorrow’s league trip to Kettering Town.
Young Doncaster Rovers midfielder Lirak Hasani has joined the Tynesiders on loan for the rest of the season.
The 18-year-old has made three appearances off the bench this season for League One outfit Rovers.
He made his debut for his hometown club two years earlier at Luton Town and has made five substitute appearances in total.
These include two off the bench last month in wins at Northampton Town and Burton Albion.
Gateshead had made an earlier move to bring the schemer to Tyneside, player-manager Mike Williamson’s persistence finally being rewarded.
Williamson said: “Hasani is a very good addition, a young player who has been in and around Doncaster’s first team.
“They speak very highly of him. He has masses of ability, is a great character and is technically very good.”
Hasani is looking forward to developing his career in the sixth tier of English football.
Having had a taste of League One football, the teenager believes he has the ability to impress in Conference North.
He said: “As a midfielder I want to be energetic and get goals - I expect that from myself.
“I look to do a bit of everything whether that is going backwards to defend, starting play, playing passes in behind or getting into the box.”
Tomorrow will be an eye-opener against a direct and physical Kettering side on one of the worst pitches in the division.
Despite their lowly placing, the Poppies have lost just one of their last 11 games - at title favourites York City.
Hasani has been involved in 13 of Doncaster’s matchday squads this season and is predicted to have a bright future.
While the loan is due to expire on May 29, Doncaster are understood to have a recall option after 28 days.
Tomorrow’s game at Kettering sees the return of striker Paul Blackett from his loan spell at Blyth Spartans.
James Montgomery should be back in goal against a Poppies squad which includes former Heed man Sam Jones.