Hayden Carter says there is unfinished business in the Rovers squad after narrowly missing out on a top six spot last season.

Jon Dahl Tomasson’s men were only behind sixth-place Sunderland on goal difference following an entertaining 4-3 victory at Millwall on the final day.

It was the club’s highest finish in a decade since dropping out of the top flight, but Carter admits missing out by such fine margins was tough to take.

The defender is determined to use it as motivation in the coming weeks and months as Rovers aim to build momentum.

“Last season, being in the play-offs for so long and then missing out on goal difference. We just have to use that as energy really to try and go one better this season and get in the top six,” he said.

“It took a few weeks (to get over). We all wanted to get this club back to where it belongs in the Premier League and to miss out on goal difference really hurt.

“But like I said, we have got to use that this season and try to go one step further.”

Tomasson is keen to build an identity at Rovers, and Carter has embraced the Dane’s positive approach.

“We know what the manager wants from us,” the 23-year-old continued. “We want to be a good footballing team and a high energy team.

“I think we have started the season doing that quite well so hopefully we can continue that for weeks to come and have a positive season.

“Me and Dom (Hyam) have played together for quite a while now. We know each other’s strengths and each other’s qualities.

“We want to keep that going and keep more clean sheets, and we want to start attacks from the back. Hopefully, we can continue to do that and help the team.”

The centre-back is relishing the physical challenge of Championship football and reckons his loan spells at Burton and Portsmouth helped him improve that side of his game.

“We don’t have the biggest side physically this season so it is up to the bigger lads to try and step up to that a bit more,” he stated. “As a defender, you need to be able to do that side of the game and I enjoy it.

“23’s football and first team football is completely different. You come up against men who are physical and use the dark arts of the game. I think the loans that I had definitely helped me get ready for that.”

Carter opened his Rovers account during the 1-1 draw against Luton Town in May and is eager to add more goals to his game.

“I want to be more of a goal threat,” he added. “I scored a few at Burton but I want to do that here.

“Defensively, I want to get my head on things and make sure I get it away. We are not the tallest of teams this year but I like to think I can help in both boxes.”