Doncaster Rovers v Bolton Wanderers: Grant McCann predicts brighter 2026 with 'it'll turn' vow

Rovers sit four points adrift of safety in League One following Monday's 4-2 defeat at Stockport County, a fifth loss in a row amid a run of just one win in 16 games.

Doncaster are in danger of an immediate return to the fourth tier but with fresh memories of strong finishes to the previous two campaigns, McCann is cautiously optimistic ahead of the New Year's Day fixture against promotion-chasing Bolton Wanderers.

"We've got to keep believing," he said. "We've got back-to-back home games now that we can hopefully get positive results in.

"There's no getting away from the fact that we're conceding way too many goals. It's our job as the coaching staff to get the players to be better, and the players have to take accountability as well.

"The boys are hurting, the fans are hurting and the football club is hurting. But we've got a real belief that we can start winning games again and move up the division because of the fight and determination we're showing. It'll turn for us."

The transfer window comes at a crucial time for the South Yorkshire club.

McCann is set to boost his struggling squad immediately with a string of new signings.

"I've told the players that I can't wait for the window to open so we can get them a bit of help because they deserve it," he added. "They're a hardworking group.

"The fans deserve somebody who can take chances for us. It's nothing against the lads because they're great lads – but the group needs a bit of freshness."

Worryingly, Ben Close has been rushed to hospital with a suspected punctured lung/collapsed lung.