Jordan Ball has hit out at a ‘lack of respect’ from Doncaster Rovers after being shown the door at the Keepmoat Stadium.
The 19-year-old striker - a prolific goalscorer at youth level - has told the Star he felt frozen out during the final months of his Rovers career and was offered no explanation on his release.
Ball became an instant fans’ favourite by scoring with his first touch at first team level against Chesterfield in the JPT.
But he made just one more senior appearance, a late cameo at Hartlepool, as his Doncaster career mysteriously fizzled out.
“I read in a few interviews that I’d get my chance next year and was ‘one for the future’, so I was shocked when I found out I’d been released,” said Ball.
“I’ve not had a reason why and I don’t know whose final decision it was.
“They didn’t get me into a room and tell me I need to improve this or that. I got a five minute phone call from the secretary and it was a case of ‘on you go’.
“That’s the only thing that’s disappointed me really. It’s a lack of respect.
“Deep down I know if I’d been given the chance I’d have taken it with both hands,” he added.
“I don’t like to blow my own trumpet but after Chesterfield and Hartlepool I thought I’d get more of an opportunity to show what I can do.
“Brian Flynn said he’d not seen me enough in game situations but in a lot of the games I did play I was played out of position. We had a game at Man Utd but I didn’t even travel.”
Mansfield-born Ball joined Doncaster aged 14. His goals helped Rovers win the Football League Alliance Trophy last year.
“I’ve loved my time at Doncaster as a whole. I loved everyone at the club to bits and it was amazing to be part of last season.
“I’ve spoken to the other lads and they said I couldn’t have done much more. I was in the gym every day and I’d spend extra time working on my shooting. It’s even more frustrating knowing there’s an under 21 team next season. It would’ve been perfect, but it’s not meant to be.
“I’d like to thank the fans and people connected to the club for their support and the messages I’ve received since leaving. It’s much appreciated.”
Rovers declined to comment.