Andrews hails Brentford prospect Donovan after patient path to first-team debut | OneFootball

Romelle Donovan, 19, made his Premier League debut in Brentford’s 2-0 loss at Chelsea, a step Keith Andrews regarded as significant and earned.

He joined on a five-year deal from Birmingham City in June 2025 after a February B Team loan, scoring 11 and assisting 10 in 15 games. He had earlier been on loan at Burton Albion, where he scored his first senior goal, and made 10 Birmingham first-team appearances.

Back with the B Team over the summer, the England Under-19 shone, which brought first-team training and Premier League squad involvement.

He debuted for the senior side in October’s 5-0 League Cup win over Grimsby with a lively 22-minute cameo, then featured again against Manchester City in December. Earlier this month he started in the FA Cup win at Sheffield Wednesday, won a penalty, led the match for successful dribbles and fouls won, created three chances, and topped the duels count.

A week later he received his first top-flight minutes at Stamford Bridge. Andrews has stressed competition in his positions means patience, and that his trajectory is positive. He added that game time is vital, with staff balancing B Team minutes with first-team exposure, a challenge during the festive schedule.

Donovan’s emergence also showcases a pathway for the B Team. Andrews says he will back youngsters who are consistently good enough and show the right attitude and desire to develop.

Source: Hounslow Herald