League Two side Bristol Rovers have signed former Northern Ireland Under-21 international defender Kofi Blamer on loan from Motherwell until the end of the season.
The ex-Crystal Palace player, who has previous experience of playing in the EFL during loan spells with Port Vale and AFC Wimbledon, admits he is looking forward to his time at the Memorial Stadium after struggling for regular first team football at parent club Motherwell this season.
“It's great to join Bristol Rovers,” said Balmer, who played 154 games in the Irish League with Ballymena United and Larne. “I came down and saw the training facilities, and I was impressed. They’re top quality, and meeting all the lads was good.
“I’ve played a couple of games at The Mem and the support, as an away player, was brilliant, with the noise. So to finally be on the home side of it and get to hear them and obviously in their numbers, it’ll be great.”
Rovers head coach Steve Evans is delighted the 25-year-old has agreed to join the Pirates after fighting off significant interest from other clubs for his signature.
“I am delighted that Kofi has joined Bristol Rovers,” he told the club website. “There was a lot of interest in Kofi’s signature across England and Scotland, and my thanks go to Ricky (Martin) and the recruitment team for their efforts in assisting me in getting him here.
“Kofi is a versatile defender who is calm, composed and comfortable in possession. He has good experience in the EFL and in the Scottish Premiership, and I’m looking forward to working with him.
“He spoke of having lots to prove, and I love kids who have that desire when they come here.”
Balmer, who has been in several Northern Ireland senior men's team squads but has yet to earn a senior cap, has been assigned the number 17 shirt by Rovers.
And he could make an immediate debut for the League Two outfit in their Football League Trophy clash with Plymouth Argyle this evening (13 January).
