I’m Doohan right to move after 11 years in waiting
Ross Doohan admits he’ll always regret not breaking through at boyhood club Celtic but is excited at a new chapter in his career.
The young keeper joined Tranmere Rovers earlier this month on a two-year deal, linking up again with loan boss Mickey Mellon.
Former Tannadice gaffer Mellon had Doohan on loan at Dundee United then took him on a six-month loan after moving to Prenton Park.
The 24-year-old wants to help the Super White Army push for promotion from League Two and is looking forward to teaming up again with his loan gaffer.
He said: “It feels like I’ve never been away.
“I had a successful season here last term and built up good relationships.
“There was interest closer to home but this was a no brainer. We’ve an exciting project underway here.
“Micky was a major factor in me returning. We’ve a good relationship and he’s given me a fantastic platform to show what I’m capable of.
“I know what he expects and what he wants me to improve on going forward.”
Doohan joined the Hoops as a 13-year-old, progressed through the academy and made the bench on a few occasions – but never played a competitive game for Celts.
A heart-to-heart with boss Ange Postecoglou convinced him it was time to move on.
Doohan said: “I’m at an age now when I can’t be going out on loan every season then returning to Celtic with my future unknown.
“I returned for pre-season but deep down knew I wasn’t going to get a chance.
“I had a good discussion with Ange before I left and he wished me all the best. He told me a move was the best option as he’s already sorted for keepers next season.
“That ’s the reality of playing for a massive club
like Celtic. They’re able to bring in two top keepers in Benji Siegrist and Joe Hart.
“For someone like myself trying to break through, it’s very difficult.
“At least I don’t need to worry about that anymore.
“I’ve been lucky enough to work with some talented keepers such as Craig Gordon and Fraser Forster.
“I only met Hart in preseason but he was helpful and I learned a lot from him in a short space of time.
“You learn a lot from your spells on loan but it’s equally important to watch these guys work. Hopefully I can be as successful as them.”
Doohan admits, though, it was a wrench to leave and wishes he’d got his chance.
He said: “I had been at Celtic since I was 13 and the club have been a big part of my life. I enjoyed my time and have a lot of memories.
“It was frustrating to have come as close as I did to making my debut for Celtic and to leave empty-handed.
“However, it’s really not down to the player, it’s down to the manager, and perhaps he felt I wasn’t ready.”
Tranmere nar rowly missed out on a play-off spot last season, finishing just two points behind Mansfield.
Doohan said: “Our ambition is to be promoted as quickly as possible.
“It’s not going to be easy but we’ve a good project under way and here’s hoping it leads to success.”