Experience Meets Ambition: Josh McEachran Joins the Gas

Bristol Rovers have made another statement of intent this summer, confirming the signing of seasoned midfielder Josh McEachran on a two-year deal from Championship outfit Oxford United.

At 32, McEachran brings a wealth of experience that will undoubtedly add calm, composure, and real quality to the heart of the Rovers midfield. Having started his career at Chelsea — where he made his debut in the Champions League — McEachran has since built a solid EFL career with stints at Brentford, Birmingham, MK Dons, and most recently Oxford, where he played a key role in their promotion to the Championship.

Now, he arrives in BS7 as Rovers’ fifth summer signing, joining a squad that's quietly but confidently taking shape under the guidance of Darrell Clarke and his revamped coaching team.

This signing signals more than just experience — it’s about control. McEachran’s ability to dictate tempo, break lines with his passing, and keep things ticking in the middle of the park is something that’s perhaps been lacking in recent campaigns. With his arrival, Rovers fans can look forward to a midfielder who thinks two moves ahead and rarely wastes possession.

It’s not just about what he offers on the pitch, though. Having been through the highs of Champions League nights and the graft of League One battles, McEachran brings a maturity and know-how that will benefit the younger players around him — both in training and on matchdays.

With pre-season looming and the squad growing stronger by the week, Rovers supporters will be starting to feel that familiar buzz of optimism. With McEachran now in the engine room, there’s every reason to believe the Gas could be ready to mount a serious push in 2025/26.

Up the Gas. ⚽💥