ALUN Rossiter has no doubt Darcy Ward will be a success for the Swindon Robins after confirming him as their new number one.

Ward’s arrival at the Abbey Stadium coincides with the departure of British Under-21 champion Kyle Howarth, a choice that has caused team manager Rossiter much distress over the past week.

Following Adrian Miedzinski’s decision to call time on his Robins career after failing to score a point upon his return from injury against Leicester Lions on June 29, Swindon needed to fill the gap at the top of the order.

Rossiter has turned to Poole Pirates star Ward to lead the charge and he is expected to come into the side to face the Lions on Saturday.

However, as the Australian ace boasts a high average, two riders have to leave to accommodate him, and the Robins boss has opted to let Howarth go too.

Plenty of eyebrows are expected to be raised by the signing as Ward only recently returned to action following a 10-month ban for a failed alcohol test and has had a somewhat colourful history both on and off the bike.

Rossiter, however, is adamant that Ward will do all his talking on the track.

“I am not worried about what people say about what’s gone on in the past,” said Rossiter.

“The past is the past and he’s a young talent, who is very exciting on a bike.

“He will lead by example and I’m convinced he won’t be a problem, contrary to people thinking that he is still trouble.

“He has the talent, he has the ability, he is one of the most exciting riders in the world but he’s young and has just gone a bit astray.

“It’s not the end of the world but he knows he’s got to settle down, and knuckle down and do his bit.

“He’s excited by it and I am excited by it too. If anyone says they aren’t excited then they are not true speedway fans.

“The decision with Kyle was the hardest I’ve ever had to make. People don’t know how low I am feeling but I have to put that aside and do what is best for Swindon and the supporters.

“Speedway is a numbers game and unfortunately someone had to go and sadly it’s Kyle and I’m absolutely gutted for him.”

Howarth’s exit leaves another hole in the Robins roster and Rossiter has opted to bring in Czech youngster Eduard Krcmar.

“We’ve looked at it and sourced around so it’s not a quick decision, we’ve looked at what was available as the best option for us,” added Rossiter.

“He’s a rider who comes in with some good calibre and massive potential.

“It is a gamble but if it comes off I’ll be a hero, and if it doesn’t then everyone will be on my back.”