RUFC - Pope 'wanted to get away'

Vital Rotherham on:
 
Vital Rotherham on:

Rotherham United's former striker, Tom Pope joined his boyhood club, Port Vale for a free on Monday after being released by the Millers earlier the same day.

Speaking to ValliantPlayer after signing he said there were times, in the last couple of weeks with the Millers, when he'd not been able to motivate himself and which, the fans who travelled to Stocksbridge for a pre-season friendly last week, will confirm.

'I'd been wanting to get away from Rotherham for a month later,' the twenty-five year old said.

Speaking to Radio Stoke Pope said, 'I've had to train on my own for the first two weeks of pre-season training and then it's tough to motivate yourself. I've spent the last couple of weeks with the kids and there isn't a lot there for me to get the fitness I needed. It's been difficult but I'm not going to use that as an excuse.'

Asked about his move to Vale Park, the former Crewe Alexandra player said, 'There were a few clubs interested in me who were offering a lot more money than Port Vale but, at the end of the day, I live just up the road and it's a club I've always supported so why would I go elsewhere? Hopefully I can play a few games, get a few goals and help the club get promotion.'

Vale Manager, Micky Adams said, 'He's a very good striker at this level and I am sure he will prove to be an important addition and can add another dimension to our attack.'

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