Joe Rothwell


Joseph Matthew Rothwell is an English professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Blackburn Rovers.

Club career

Manchester United

Having joined Manchester United's academy at the age of six, Rothwell signed professional terms with the club in the summer of 2013. On 26 July 2011, he scored twice in a 7–0 win over County Tyrone in the Milk Cup. He was named as a substitute for a first-team game against Watford in March 2016.

Blackpool (loan)

On 27 January 2015, Rothwell joined Blackpool, then in last place in the Championship, on loan for the remainder of the season. Four days later he was included in a professional matchday squad for the first time, remaining an unused substitute for Blackpool's 1–0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at Bloomfield Road. A week later he made his debut as Blackpool lost 0–4 away to Norwich City, replacing Mark Waddington at half time. His first career start came on 24 February, playing the entirety of a defeat by the same score at Brentford, his last of three appearances for the club.

Barnsley (loan)

On 18 July 2015, Rothwell joined League One side Barnsley on a six-month loan. He played four League games and made one appearance in the opening round of the Football League Trophy, a competition Barnsley ultimately won, beating Oxford United.

Oxford United

On 12 July 2016, Rothwell joined Oxford on a two-year deal after turning down the offer of a new contract at Manchester United. He scored the first senior goal of his career in an FA Cup second-round replay against Macclesfield Town on 13 December 2016, a game which Oxford won 3–0. His first league goal came in a 5–1 win over Bury on 28 March 2017.

Blackburn Rovers

On 22 June 2018, Rothwell joined Blackburn Rovers for an undisclosed fee. He signed a three-year deal.

International career

Rothwell has represented England at under-16, under-17, under-19, and under-20 levels.

Career statistics