Former Irish League star rejects League One offers to make permanent Bristol Rovers return

Balmer, who has been involved with Northern Ireland’s senior squad on a number of occasions without yet earning a maiden cap, joined Rovers on loan in January.

He was a mainstay in Evans’ line-up as Rovers finished their campaign on a high and has now opted for an extended stay following his summer departure from Scottish Premiership club Motherwell, signing a two-year contract.

Evans has previously stated his belief that Balmer, who spent time in the Irish League with Ballymena United and Larne, can establish himself at international level by continuing to impress at the Memorial Stadium.

“Kofi was nothing short of exceptional during his loan with us and I'm delighted he's joined Rovers on a permanent deal,” said Evans. “Kofi has reminded everyone of his true quality in the last few months.

"He came here with a lot to prove, and he's shown that desire, that work ethic, and was a big part of the group in the second half of last season.

"There is always a lot of interest in a player of Kofi's ability, certainly when he shows it consistently like he did in the last few weeks of last season, but I'm really happy Kofi has signed with us despite offers from League One clubs.

"If he keeps setting such high standards for himself and the group that level will come to him. When he played for me previously he had the same characteristics and qualities that he has now”.

Balmer previously spent time on the books of Crystal Palace, where he was named on the bench for three Premier League fixtures by former manager Patrick Vieira.

The 25-year-old also enjoyed loan spells at Port Vale and AFC Wimbledon and is excited to have a new permanent home in Rovers.

“It feels amazing to sign permanently,” he said. “After an enjoyable and good finish to the season, and a really good loan for me, I felt like I was in a really good place at Rovers.

"There were good people around me and it felt like the right decision to stay with the Gas. When you have something good, you want it to keep going for as long as possible, and I think it will be one I look back at and thank myself for doing.

“We had a great run at the end of last season and I expect we’ll have the same mentality in the new season too, with the players and manager we’ve got.

"We were top of the in-form table and we want to go into the new year with the same mentality and trying to do that for the whole of the new season. There is no reason why we can’t pick right back up where we left off.

“Since the very first conversation I had with the gaffer, before I came down on loan, I knew I would enjoy it at Rovers.

"I’ve enjoyed the graft, working hard, and I feel he’s got the best out of me so far. Him wanting me here was a really big thing for me too.

"I’ve enjoyed working with him and the group and I want to keep enjoying that next season.

“I’ve loved every second of being here. It means so much when the fans are behind you and they’re supporting you through thick and thin.

"Now it’s up to me to repay that to them. I’ll always give 100 per cent for the team. And I’ve absolutely loved living here too.

"I’m excited to get back down and getting back around Bristol and getting back to work. Hopefully I can score a few more goals like the two I did last season as well. I’ve been practicing them on my holidays so hopefully there are more of those to come.”