Sean Roughan has opened up on his departure from Lincoln City after six years with the club, expressing gratitude for his time at Sincil Bank while outlining his ambitions with Huddersfield Town.
The Republic of Ireland youth international joined the Terriers earlier this summer on a three-year deal following the expiry of his Imps contract, with us receiving a compensation fee in the region of half a million.
The move ended a lengthy and impressive spell at Lincoln, where Roughan progressed through the ranks to become a first-team regular. The 22-year-old played every single minute of the 2024–25 League One campaign, helping Michael Skubala’s side to an 11th-place finish and becoming a mainstay in a defence known for its organisation and resilience.
Reflecting on his time in Lincolnshire, Roughan told Yorkshire Live:
“Great club. One of the best run clubs, and the lads are top there, but I just thought it was the best time for me to move on. I’ve had two good full seasons, last year I didn’t miss a minute in the league, and to do that is something that you probably don’t think of, and it doesn’t happen often.
“To leave a club that I was at for six years, and to come through into the first team, that’s all I knew since I’ve been over in England. It was tough, and I can’t thank them enough for what they’ve done, but I just thought the next step was for me and it was here.”
Positional Insight
One interesting night from his interview was his positional preference, and whether he views himself as a left-back or centre-back.
“I’d probably say not wing-back, because I like joining the attack rather than being the attack at first, and I like defending. It’s at left-back, or I don’t mind shifting into centre-back.
“I don’t mind doing wing-back, but it’s not my best position. I’d much rather play left-back or at centre-back. Wherever I play, I’m happy. Once I’m on the pitch, you can’t take that for granted.”
Parting on Good Terms
While the departure of a homegrown talent like Roughan is a blow for Lincoln, it’s clear there is mutual respect between the player and the club. His final campaign in red and white was arguably his best, and it comes as no surprise that he attracted interest from higher-profile League One sides.
For us, the challenge now is replacing not just Roughan’s defensive reliability, but his leadership and durability. With Towler arriving and Sonny Bradley offering veteran experience, there’s reason for quiet optimism, but Sean’s minutes and consistency will take some replacing.
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