Rovers' new loan defender Baldwin set for a home debut

New signing Pat Baldwin is relishing the chance to return to first-team football following his loan move to Bristol Rovers.

The 27-year-old Colchester United defender is set to make his debut for the Pirates in today's home game against Gillingham after agreeing a deal which will keep him at the club until the New Year.

Bristol Rovers, who are without full-backs Aaron Lescott and Carl Regan for today's game, have moved to bolster their rearguard after leaking goals in recent weeks.

And Baldwin is keen to taste regular action again. He suffered an ankle injury in Colchester's game with Southampton in September and has been unable to force his way back in to their side.

"Moving to Bristol Rovers is a good challenge for me and one that I'm definitely looking forward to. I'm excited about it and glad to be here," said Baldwin.

"I've played three reserve games since returning from injury and my fitness is fine. I've really missed playing in front of a crowd on a Saturday.

"I played at the Memorial Stadium against Rovers last season and it's a nice little stadium with a great atmosphere so I'm just looking forward to playing there."

After spending time as a trainee at Chelsea, Baldwin has spent the last seven years with Colchester – but said it wasn't really a wrench to leave the Essex club.

"Obviously I've lived in the area for a long time and have family and friends there, but in terms of football I just want to play," he said. "Thankfully Rovers have given me that chance."

Baldwin met his new team-mates for the first time at training yesterday – but came across one familiar face in goalkeeper Rhys Evans.

"I know Rhys very well from my time at Chelsea and it's nice to see at least one friendly face in the dressing room," he said.

"It helps, but I'm sure that all the lads will be fine."

Though Baldwin's initial stint with Rovers will last until January 2, it could yet develop into a longer stay.

"I'm not looking beyond January at the moment," said Baldwin. "I just want to get some games under my belt and we'll just wait and see what happens between now and then.

"But if I'm happy here and everyone is happy with me, then you never know what might happen in the future."

Rovers have conceded 20 goals in their last seven outings and boss Paul Trollope hopes Baldwin's arrival will help to tighten things up.

"We have conceded a lot of goals in recent weeks and we need to address that," said Trollope. "We feel that increased competition will improve us and, whilst his versatility is a factor, we've brought him here primarily as a centre-half."

"Pat is a very experienced League One defender who has tasted a promotion out of this division with Colchester, and played regularly in the Championship.

He brings a lot of good defensive qualities with him and his versatility enables him to play in a number of defensive positions."

Baldwin won't be allowed to play against his parent club when Rovers visit Colchester on December 5.