Dean Furman insists he is looking forward to a new challenge after leaving Doncaster Rovers.

Furman, 27, made 66 league appearances for Rovers after joining from Oldham Athletic in 2013 following a successful loan spell when he helped the club win League 1.

He said: “It’s been quite an eventful couple of years. I was lucky enough to be involved in the title-winning game, which was one of the most incredible moments in football that I’ve been involved in.”

Furman, who is captain of the South Africa national team, missed a chunk of the league campaign through international commitments, which culminated in the Africa Cup of Nations.

He said: “Now I’m looking to continue my progress and I believe now is the right time to move on.

"I'd love to get back into the Championship and am looking forward to a new challenge.”

Asked about joining a Premier League club, he responded: “That might prove difficult, but you can never say never.

"Everything will become much clearer in the next few weeks, but I’m open-minded about the best opportunities that lie ahead."

Doncaster boss Paul Dickov admits he is sad to see Furman go.

"It was a difficult call as Dean’s a fantastic kid who I’ve got a lot of time for.

"He was my captain at Oldham aged 22. I wish him all the best and thank him for, not just his time at Rovers, but also the relationship I’ve had with him.

"He’s had a lot of interest both here and abroad."