Doncaster Rovers: McCann 'won't stand in way' of Marquis if he wants to move

Marquis was the subject of three bids last week including one which came from an unnamed Championship outfit, while Peterborough United and Aberdeen.

McCann says he has been assured by the 26-year-old that he would see a move to another League One club or the Scottish Premier League as a sideways step and not an opportunity to progress his career.

But the Rovers boss understands the chance to play in the Championship may prove too good to turn down for the striker and says he would not block the move as long as the club hierarchy were happy with the deal.

"I spoke to him and he doesn't want a sideways step in League One or the Scottish Premier League," McCann said.

"I told John that if anything comes from the Championship and it meets the club's valuation, then I won't stand in his way.

"I'd wish him well.

"That is type of person I am. He deserves that.

"But he's our player and we'll do all we can to keep him here with us.

McCann added: "It was on my first day when two bids came in for John. Actually it was three with one from a Championship club as well that haven't made it public.

"Was it a shock to me? Yes. But did I expect it?

"He's scored plenty of goals over the past two seasons. He's a goalscorer and they're in high demand."

Rovers immediately rejected the bids for Marquis and insist the striker is not for sale as they look to push for a place in the Championship themselves.

New boss McCann says he was heartened by the stance and is looking forward to working with Marquis in the coming weeks.

He said: "There's no pressure to sell John. The board will back me to the hilt with keeping him.

"But at the same time, I wouldn't stand in anyone's way in progressing themselves.

"If anything comes back on that, we'll take it from there.

"I'm delighted he's here.

"He trained very well all week in La Manga and you saw his workrate and commitment again on Saturday against Alfreton.

"His attitude was first class."