Following the news of Roughan’s first professional contract with the Imps, Head of Football Jez George highlighted the positive outcome for both the Academy and Sean.
“Whilst this is a fantastic moment for Sean and his family and a really well deserved reward for all his hard work and dedication, it is also a positive milestone for the Academy, with Sean being the first graduate of our scholarship programme since the Club’s return to the Football League to sign a professional contract.”
Jez also spoke about the environment put in place by the Academy’s coaching staff, which has enabled Sean to progress during his first year as a Scholar.
“Great credit should go to Tom Shaw (Professional Phase Development Lead Coach), David Bridges (Head of Coaching) and Jordan McCann (Academy Manager) for the environment they create for all our Scholars and the role they have played in Sean’s tremendous progress over the last 12 months. They are really top class people and brilliant coaches.”
As Sean now looks to break through into the first-team squad, Jez explained how Michael Appleton’s ability to develop young players will benefit him going forward.
“Sean is an outstanding young man and a very talented footballer with great potential, but he realises this is only the start and knows how much more work is ahead of him to breakthrough into the first team. He couldn’t have a better manager to help him achieve that aim than Michael Appleton and Sean will now train full-time with the first team, whilst still being eligible to play in the youth team, as the next stage of his development.”
Off the pitch, Jez has also praised the hard work of the Academy, Louise Costello and Lincoln Minster school, who have helped Sean complete his Irish Leaving Certificate.
“I would also like to thank Louise Costello, who tutored Sean in Irish, and Lincoln Minster School, particularly Simon Grocott, for making it possible for us to deliver the 2nd year of Sean’s Irish Leaving Certificate. When I first met Sean’s family, that was the condition of Sean leaving home, and his school, to sign for Lincoln City. In addition to his hard work, Louise, Simon and his staff, as well as Paul Metheringham, our Academy Operations Manager, have given Sean incredible support as he has balanced his education and football.”
“We really look forward to working with Sean to fulfil his potential and seeing him take his first steps in professional football. We hope and expect that he will be the first of many home-grown players making that journey in the coming years.”
