Brad Young Joins the Gas – A New Era Between the Sticks

Bristol Rovers have added further quality to their squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, confirming the signing of goalkeeper Brad Young on a two-year deal from Leicester City.

The 23-year-old shot-stopper becomes the latest addition to Darrell Clarke’s squad as the rebuild continues to take shape in BS7. With pedigree from the Premier League and a strong youth international background, Young brings both potential and hunger to the Mem.

Having come through the ranks at Hartlepool United, Young’s rise took a major step when he earned a move to Leicester City following a standout trial. Since then, he’s established himself in the Foxes’ U21s, racking up 48 appearances including a debut against Manchester United’s U21s. Not a bad introduction to academy football at the highest level.

His journey has also seen him take in loan spells with Blyth Spartans, Notts County, and a recent return to Hartlepool, where he gained valuable first-team minutes in the National League. Now, after years of developing under the radar, Young is ready to make a mark in the EFL—and he’s chosen the blue and white quarters to do it.

“There’s a real project here,” said Young. “Something I want to be part of for my development and to go forward in my career.”

That word—project—keeps coming up. And it’s clear Darrell Clarke and Ricky Martin have something brewing this summer. With Jed Ward already in place and impressing last season, the arrival of Young provides fierce competition for the No.1 shirt—and that can only benefit the team.

Clarke himself praised the keeper’s “incredibly high ceiling,” while Director of Football Ricky Martin labelled him “a strong and commanding shot-stopper with qualities suited to being a top modern-day goalkeeper.” High praise, and now it’s time for Young to prove it on the pitch.

He’ll be working closely with James Bittner, Rovers’ Head of Goalkeeping, and you get the sense this is a signing with both the short and long term in mind. Whether he’s pushing Ward or taking the gloves himself, Young’s arrival adds serious depth to a key position.

Bristol Rovers fans should be encouraged by this one—a young, ambitious player with pedigree and hunger. The type who’s not here just to make up the numbers.

Welcome to the Mem, Brad. Now let’s get to work.