Lincoln City striker James Collins has joined Doncaster Rovers on a loan deal until January. The 35-year-old forward's temporary move, confirmed during the closing stages of the transfer window, is designed to give him a clear route back into competitive football after a serious knee injury.
Collins ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during a Vertu Trophy match against Huddersfield Town last December. That injury ended his campaign prematurely, though he had already played a significant part in Lincoln City's promotion to the Championship. The club subsequently activated an option to extend his contract until the summer of 2027 while he began rehabilitation.
Why did Lincoln City loan James Collins out?
The Championship's 25-player squad regulations complicated Collins's immediate prospects at Sincil Bank. With the striker in the latter stages of his ACL recovery, the loan to League One's Doncaster Rovers provides a practical solution. It allows Collins to build fitness and rediscover his sharpness in a competitive environment, while Lincoln City manages its squad limit. The Imps, currently 17th in the Championship with four points from four games, have scored three goals and conceded five this season. You can view the full standings for the latest table.
Grant McCann, the Doncaster Rovers manager, was the first to contact Collins after it became clear a temporary move was possible. "I’m really pleased. I’m glad it’s done now," Collins told Doncaster's club media. He added, "It’s been going on for a couple of days."
What impact did James Collins have at Lincoln City?
James Collins made an immediate impression after joining Lincoln City from Derby County in January 2025. He scored from the bench on his debut against Peterborough United and finished that first half-season with an impressive 10 league goals from just 20 appearances. His contribution was vital in the club's push for promotion. The experienced striker, who has more than 200 senior career goals, now faces a demanding recovery process. "I think you take football for granted a bit when you’re fit and available and you’re playing every week, but once it gets taken away from you, you realise how much you miss it," Collins stated.
What happens next for the veteran striker?
Collins is expected to continue his rehabilitation with Doncaster Rovers and may return to action later this year. His focus is squarely on the coming months. "My focus now is getting back fully fit as quickly as possible and helping Doncaster Rovers be successful this season," he said. Collins also expressed his belief that he can play a big role for his new side. "I firmly believe I can play a big role here, score goals and help the team be successful."
The future for Collins at Lincoln City remains unclear due to the high number of forwards at the club. It is possible Doncaster Rovers are assessing him with a view to a permanent move in January. For now, the Imps turn their attention to their next Championship fixture, a home match against Southampton on September 5th. The Saints currently sit 18th in the table, one place below Lincoln City who are six points behind league leaders Swansea. The full upcoming schedule is available on our fixtures page. This news was first reported by The Stacey West.
