Rodrigo Vilca had a Doncaster Rovers debut to forget.
The Peruvian left Newcastle United on deadline day, joining the League One side on loan until January.
He made his first Doncaster appearance on Tuesday night in the Papa John’s Trophy, but sadly it didn’t go to plan.
Rovers were absolutely battered at home by Rotherham, losing 6-0 to the Millers.
It was a humbling debut for Vilca, who started on the right of attack for Richie Wellens’ side.
The 22-year-old lasted 63 minutes before being replaced by Dan Gardner.
The torrid result will certainly put a downer on what was Vilca’s first senior appearance in English football.
However, he did show some signs of promise. There were certainly some Doncaster fans who were encouraged with what they saw on his debut.
Rodrigo Vilca needs to seize opportunity at Doncaster
This loan move is a big deal for Vilca. It’s his first chance to prove he can be a success in England.
While his debut didn’t totally go to plan, surely things can only get better. He’s a technically gifted player who can create chances and make a difference in the final third. The more comfortable he gets with his teammates the better he should become.
Vilca joined Newcastle almost a year ago, costing £225,000 from Deportivo Municipal.
He was an out of the blue signing, recommended to the head of recruitment Steve Nickson.
Considering he cost so little, this deal was a no brainer. He could prove to be a really astute piece of business.
But he needs to impress in League One. If he can’t cope with the physical nature of English football then he’ll have no chance of succeeding at Newcastle United.
This loan is pivotal for Vilca’s Toon career, and a 6-0 defeat is hardly the best of starts. The only way is up…
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
