Goalkeeper Jake Turner has signed for Newport County after Rotherham United decided not to offer him a contract following a trial. The 27-year-old made substitute appearances in five pre-season friendlies for the Millers but has now joined their League Two rivals, as first reported by the Rotherham Advertiser this week.
Rotherham, who finished 23rd in League One last season with 37 points from 42 games, brought in Brentford youngster Julian Eyestone on loan instead. Current number one Ted Cann has started all three matches of the new campaign and kept his place despite Eyestone's arrival. The club conceded 65 goals last term, finishing with a -29 goal difference, which underscores the ongoing focus on defensive options.
Why did Rotherham pass on Jake Turner?
Jake Turner did little wrong during his trial spell at Rotherham United, but he ultimately did not stand out enough to earn a deal. The former Newcastle United prospect featured off the bench in friendlies against Matlock Town, Alfreton Town, Sheffield United, Darlington, and Derby County. Managerial preference shifted towards securing a loan for a younger option, which led to the arrival of Julian Eyestone from Brentford. This decision maintains the pecking order, with Ted Cann firmly established as the first choice.
The club's defensive record from the previous campaign, where they were 56 points behind champions Lincoln, likely informed their cautious approach in evaluating new goalkeepers. Fans can track the current squad's composition on our squad page.
What does Turner bring to Newport County?
Newport County boss Hayden Mullins has moved to sign Jake Turner, a goalkeeper familiar to him from a loan spell at Colchester United from August 2021 to February 2022. Turner brings extensive League Two experience, having made 87 appearances for Gillingham over four years. Speaking after his move, Turner outlined his attributes. "I'm a shot-stopping goalkeeper and I think I'll show I'm quite a good communicator," he said.
He was an unused substitute for Newport's 5-3 defeat at Bristol Rovers last Saturday. Turner acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, "I think I can bring quite a bit to the team. Obviously, I've got to try to get into it first."
When will Rotherham face Newport County?
The two clubs are scheduled to meet twice this season in cup competitions, adding an extra layer to this player movement. Newport County will visit the AESSEAL New York Stadium on October 20. The return fixture at Rodney Parade is set for January 19. These dates are part of a broader schedule that supporters can view on our fixtures page.
This sets up a scenario where Turner could line up against the club that recently assessed him. The fixtures arrive during a season where Rotherham will aim to improve upon a recent form line that ended last season with LLLDL.
What does this mean for Rotherham's goalkeeper situation?
The decision confirms Ted Cann's status as the undisputed starter for Rotherham United. Julian Eyestone provides cover and development potential as the loan deputy. This leaves no immediate vacancy for an experienced keeper like Turner. The club's activity in the market appears focused on supporting roles rather than challenging for the number one shirt.
Meanwhile, young left-sided player Kane Richardson has joined non-league Ferriby Town on a month-long loan, indicating the club's focus on managing the broader squad. The full league standings and statistical context from last season are available on our standings page. Rotherham's immediate task is to build a more competitive platform after a difficult previous campaign.
