Steve Evans has name-checked Leeds United while stressing the size and stature of Bristol Rovers, as he looks to steer the Gas away from danger in League Two.
Ending the Losing Run
Evans made a small but important early impact after taking charge at Bristol Rovers, ending the club’s ten-game losing streak with a draw away at Crewe Alexandra last week.
While the result stopped the slide, the manager admitted he was frustrated his side did not go on to claim all three points.
Evans’ Long Management Career
With over 30 years in management and more than 1,000 games in the dugout, Evans is one of the most experienced figures in the EFL.
His previous roles include spells at:
-
Leeds United
-
Rotherham United
-
Crawley Town
Evans was in charge at Elland Road during the turbulent ownership of Massimo Cellino and earned praise for how he handled himself before eventually being dismissed. He has since insisted he holds no regrets about taking the Leeds job.
Commitment to the Bristol Rovers Cause
Evans has made it clear he is fully committed to Bristol Rovers, joking that even his wife has had to swap beachwear for winter clothing to join him in Bristol.
Speaking to the club’s media, Evans said:
“And the one thing that every Gas fan can be assured of is that we’re giving this our lives. I’ve already got my keys now to my apartment. I’m going to be here.”
He added humorously:
“My wife’s coming to Bristol. She’s not going to the Maldives.
I think four bikinis have gone back and she swapped them for cardigans.”
Leeds Named as the Biggest Club He’s Managed
While praising Bristol Rovers, Evans implicitly declared Leeds United as the biggest club he has ever managed, claiming the Gas rank second on that list.
“You say to me whether I want to be sitting on a beach on Boxing Day or as the manager of Bristol Rovers…
I’d be even more proud if we can bring some wins in for the football club because arguably it’s the second biggest club I’ve ever managed.”
Recent Leeds United Managers
Last five permanent Leeds United managers:
| Manager | Time at Club |
|---|---|
| Daniel Farke | July 2023 – present |
| Sam Allardyce | May 2023 – June 2023 |
| Javi Gracia | February 2023 – May 2023 |
| Jesse Marsch | February 2022 – February 2023 |
| Marcelo Bielsa | June 2018 – February 2022 |
Lofty Ambitions and What’s Next
Despite the draw at Crewe, former EFL striker Sam Parkin has questioned whether Evans can guide Bristol Rovers to safety.
Evans, however, has set far bigger ambitions, claiming the club should be in the Championship, alongside city rivals Bristol City.
Next up is a Boxing Day clash against Bromley, where another positive result would further win over supporters — even if it does little to soften the blow of his wife missing out on a winter beach break.
Leave a Reply