Tom Pope felt he was ready for a new challenge (From Crewe Guardian)

Tom Pope felt he was ready for a new challenge

6:35pm Thursday 11th June 2009

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TOM Pope felt the time was right to leave Crewe for League Two rivals Rotherham United.

The 23-year-old striker completed something of a surprise £150,000 move last Friday.

Last season’s top scorer, Pope netted 17 goals in just 32 starts and 24 substitute appearances for the Alex after making the switch from non-league Biddulph Victoria two years ago.

Some supporters will question why the club have opted to part with Pope at this stage of his career while others may hail good business.

But one thing is for certain.

It’s another indication of a new Crewe under the reign of Gudjohn Thordarson.

Pope revealed his frustration.

“It’s not that I wanted to leave Crewe but I did want a new challenge,” he said.

“People thought I wasn’t consistent enough but I don’t think any of the other forwards were more consistent.

“It was getting a bit frustrating for me because even though I felt I was doing a decent job for the team, I was the one who would lose my place.

“That’s football and I’m not using it as an excuse but it can get you down.

“Crewe is a great club and there are some great people there.

“Neil (Baker) has been a big influence on my career and has always tried to help me.

“I’ve learned a great deal from working with the likes of Dario, Steve and Neil and they’ve helped me become the player I am today.

“But it feels like a new club and I felt it was time I got out and had a new challenge.”

Rotherham equalled their club record to sign Pope who now plans to repay the faith shown.

“Rotherham made an enquiry and I felt it was in my interest to go and speak to them,” continued Pope.

“They have a new chairman and he is looking to develop a new training ground and make improvements to the stadium.

“It’s a club that have had problems with administration in the past but they are on an upward curve and I hope I can prove a few people wrong who feel I am not good enough.

“I’m delighted Rotherham have come in for me and are prepared to pay that sort of fee.

“It shoes that the manager and the chairman have faith in my ability.

“Now it’s up to me to repay them.

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