Bristol Rovers fans have reason to be optimistic about the future of their defensive lineup. Manager Steve Evans has expressed strong confidence that centre-back Kofi Balmer will return to the club next season, following an impressive loan spell that saw the 25-year-old become a mainstay in the backline.
Arriving from Scottish Premiership side Motherwell in January, Balmer quickly established himself as a key figure, playing every minute of all but one league game. This consistent performance has clearly made an impression on Evans, who hasn't held back in his praise.
"I know that our chief executive and chairman have been in long dialogue with the people who have looked after Kofi," Evans revealed on BBC Radio Bristol's Having a Gas. "Motherwell have been fantastic to deal with as well. I'm confident that in time, Kofi will be with us for sure."
Balmer's journey to Rovers has been anything but straightforward. After developing through Crystal Palace's academy, he gained experience on loan at Port Vale and AFC Wimbledon before moving to Motherwell in 2024. Limited game time in Scotland led to his January switch to the Gas, but Evans believes the best is yet to come.
"When he's got into his run of games and his second wind, he's been nothing short of exceptional," Evans added. "We signed a lad who had been an international player. In the last six or eight weeks, Kofi has played like a full international for Bristol Rovers. I've got no doubt he'll obtain that status again if or when he joins us."
But Balmer isn't the only familiar face who could be returning to the Memorial Stadium. Veteran midfielder Richie Smallwood, who spent the second half of the season on loan from Tranmere, has been offered a deal to make his stay permanent. The 35-year-old featured in 15 games for the Pirates after joining on deadline day and is now considering his options.
"We have put something to Richie—an offer—and he's considering that this weekend with his family," Evans confirmed.
In other squad news, centre-forward Ellis Harrison has signed a one-year contract extension, while defender Joel Senior's option has been triggered to keep him through 2026-27, with an improved offer on the table beyond that. As the summer transfer window approaches, Rovers are clearly building for a strong push next season.