Tottenham youngster Matthew Craig is now impressing on loan at Doncaster Rovers and has played a crucial role in their League Two play-off run.
Doncaster Rovers might complete a historic feat on Saturday afternoon by securing a spot in the League Two play-offs after an incredible run of form. Back in February, the South Yorkshire team was 22nd and seven points above the relegation zone. They now have the possibility to secure a play-off spot by registering a point at Gillingham in their final game of the season.
Another three points would secure fifth place and home advantage in the second leg of the corresponding play-off tie, while a point could be enough for Doncaster if results go their way on the last day. The League Two side’s play-off run has been amazing, with them winning their past ten consecutive league games to climb into the top seven.
Rovers had been solidly in the play-off picture in recent weeks, and with a 4-1 victory away at relegation-threatened Colchester United on Tuesday evening, they finally made it. Tottenham will undoubtedly be watching Doncaster‘s performance this weekend and in the play-offs if they make it, as Spurs youngster Matthew Craig is presently on loan with Grant McCann‘s team.
The 21-year-old, who had previously been part of Tottenham‘s first-team matchday squad, made his senior debut 11 months ago in a 4-1 victory over Leeds United. Introduced for the final 13 minutes of the game by interim head coach Ryan Mason, the former Spurs midfielder praised his player after the game, revealing that Craig’s debut was “not a gift” because he had earned it through persistent hard effort.
Just not getting a look in this season under Ange Postecoglou, the midfielder played in Premier League 2 before a loan move to the Eco-Power Stadium was completed in early January. Craig‘s stint at Doncaster cannot be compared to other Spurs loan arrangements that have not gone as planned in recent months.
The Scotland Under-21 international has started 17 of his 18 Rovers matches, contributing significantly to their ten-game winning streak. Craig received a seven out of ten from the Doncaster Free Press for his performance in Tuesday’s win over Colchester.
They wrote: “Cute touches and plenty of bite in the tackle from Tottenham’s loanee. Played a critical role in ensuring our fantastic run continues.”
Craig has profited from getting his first true taste of senior football on a consistent basis, which has undoubtedly been aided by the fact that McCann, a former EFL midfielder, is his manager. It’s been a fantastic success for everyone involved, and it could be Tottenham’s best loan deal of the 2023/24 season.
What happens next for Craig, who signed a new Tottenham contract until the summer of 2026 last July, remains to be seen. Another loan transfer at a higher level would be extremely beneficial to the player, with Doncaster undoubtedly hoping to entice him back to the football club whether or not they get promoted to League One next month.
Craig was asked by The Yorkshire Post one month ago if he would return to Doncaster next season, and he appeared to be open to another stay with McCann‘s team.
He went on to say, “I’ve loved it – every minute. I’ve really liked being here and getting to experience senior football. You see games in the league and can’t wait to play.
“You discuss with Spurs where they believe is best for you and when you should go out. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to come here and get some games. This is certainly my first loan, and I believe I’ve learned a lot in the few months I’ve been here. I’ve been really fortunate to have joined a club that has provided me with invaluable assistance and a squad that has welcomed me.
“Because this is my first loan, you don’t have any experience, which I believe allows you to adjust to whatever happens. Coming in with knowledge of the physical aspect will be quite beneficial. I believe it has been. I believe I’ve adjusted fairly well over time.”
Craig has clearly adjusted throughout his time at Doncaster, as evidenced by his 17 starts from 18 outings, which highlight his place in McCann’s thoughts. A couple of more appearances, and even a start at Wembley Stadium, await him if Rovers achieve their play-off aim on Saturday and progress all the way to League One promotion.
This weekend’s journey to Gillingham will not be easy, but the form book is heavily stacked in Doncaster’s favour after matching a club record run of 10 consecutive victories. Craig and Doncaster have had a successful season, which they hope to continue as they prepare for promotion to League One.
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