Earlier this season, we caught up with Rovers Under-23s midfielder Ben Paton, to get to know the Canadian youth international a little better …
BEN PATON
Position: Midfielder
DOB: 05/05/2000
First team played for:
The first team I played for was Kitchener Soccer Club in my hometown back in Canada. I was about seven when I first started playing proper football. Before then I was just playing Sunday league. And I was at Kitchener for about five or six years.
Your move to Rovers:
I came over when I was about 15 on a week’s trial. My agent helped get me trials at Rovers, Aston Villa and Reading, and I’ve managed to stay at Rovers ever since.
Best friend in football:
I’d say my best mates in football are probably Louie Annesley and Sam Barnes.
Describe yourself as a player:
Versatile. Centre-midfield is my preferred position, because I like to make things happen and create things, and try to get assists and goals.
Highlight of your career:
Probably being called up by the Canada national team, at Under-17 level. It’s a great experience, being able to play different countries and experience different cultures. And I’d also say playing Under-23s football here at Rovers and signing my pro contract.
Hopes for the season:
Just to keep playing week-in week-out and hopefully progress towards the first team.
Career ambitions:
To play first team football and hopefully play in the Premier League one day.
