Former Man U youth player who moved to Blackpool in 2000. A three time PFA team of the year member with Oldham and Rovers
Like Doncaster team-mate Mark Wilson, Wellens started his career at Manchester United. A youth team player alongside Wes Brown and John O’Shea, he had less luck breaking into the first team and joined Blackpool in 2000, making a name for himself with his skilful passing and ability to unlock defences.
He switched to his local club Oldham in 2005 and two years later joined to Doncaster, where his reputation had been cemented as one of the most talented and influential central midfielders in the lower leagues.
Wellens was selected in the PFA Team of the Year in 2005, 2007 and again in 2008 as he drove Rovers to promotion to the Championship.