Former Notts striker Paul Heffernan is set for a Meadow Lane return this evening with Doncaster Rovers and the Irishman is looking forward to returning to the Club where he began his professional career, he has told the Yorkshire Star.

Article by Steve Hossack - Tuesday 12 August 2008

Having sat out Doncaster Rovers' opening Championship game at Pride Park on Saturday, striker Paul Heffernan is hoping to feature in tonight's Carling Cup first round tie at Notts County.

"County were my first club when I came over here from Ireland so I'd love to go back there tonight because I've got happy memories of Meadow Lane," said the Irishman.

"I don't imagine that many, if any, of the players who were there when I was at the club are still there, but I would think that some of the backroom staff will be so it would be nice to meet up with them again."

Heffernan joined County early in the 1999-2000 season and played for them until the end of the 2003-04 season when he joined Bristol City in a £125,000 deal.

Unfortunately, things didn't work out as hoped for Heffernan at Ashton Gate and he found his first-team opportunities limited.

Following talks between the player and management, the club decided to make Heffernan available for the fee they paid for him.

Rovers, who had been interested in Heffernan when he was at County, made their move, but found themselves involved in a two-way battle for his services with League One rivals Oldham.

With both clubs agreeing to meet City's asking price it was down to the player to chose.

"Oldham were the first to speak to me and they made me a good offer but I chose Rovers and I've had no regrets - especially with us now being in the Championship" said Heffernan.

"Although the team did well at Derby on Saturday, I would imagine that the manager will be making a few changes for tonight's game so I hope to be involved.

"Obviously doing well in the league is the top priority but I also think that we've got a good enough squad to have a cup run as well.

"I certainly hope that we can do a bit better than last year when we lost at Plymouth in the second round.

"Whoever plays tonight, we've got to fancy our chances against a League Two club - though we can't afford to take them lightly because they'll be up for it."