Joey Barton claims a Christmas team-bonding weekend in Dublin has energised the Bristol Rovers squad and brought them closer together as they look to continue their strong form against Charlton Athletic this weekend.
The Rovers squad, minus coaching staff, departed for the Irish capital in the wake of the 1-1 draw at Bolton Wanderers, as that fixture took place on a Friday night due to the World Cup so they were afforded a full weekend before reconvening at The Quarters.
With 11 new signings in 2022/23, including Josh Coburn and Scott Sinclair who didn't arrive until late September and early October, respectively, and a busy schedule of 29 matches inside 136 days since the season kicked off - one every 4.9 days - a number of individuals haven’t been able to bond with their teammates beyond football-related chat at the training ground and on a matchday.
