Caretaker Andy Butler wants Doncaster Rovers job in the long term

A whirlwind day which started off with the shock exit of Darren Moore to Sheffield Wednesday ended with Butler finalising preparations for his first match in permanent charge of the League One promotion-chasers, who host Portsmouth in a key fixture tonight.

The centre-half has somewhat wisely elected to concentrate on managing and not playing. He was brought back to Rovers for a second playing spell in September, but his elevation to the dug-out – initially for the rest of the season but with the potential for longer – could signal the end of his long playing career which began in 2002.

Butler did get a brief taste of management in taking charge of Rovers for two games in November after Moore and his coaching staff were required to self-isolate after being in contact with a positive COVID-19 case.

Now the 37-year-old is relishing an extended spell in the role and he is open in his desire to secure it for the long term.

Butler, who will also relinquish his job with Doncaster Rovers Belles to focus on Rovers said: “One door closes and another opens..The chairman (David Brunt) and Gavin (Baldwin, chief executive) spoke to me and I grabbed it with both hands.

“I am relishing it and really looking forward to the challenge ahead and working with the players as we have a fantastic squad.

“I have a desire to do what I hope will be the next step in my (football) career and hopefully I can do a good job and continue from there.

“I make no bones about it, I would love to manage the club for longer.

“It is up to myself and the people around me to continue to get better.

“It could be the end of my playing career, but what a way to continue in football..”

Butler will not have an assistant in time for tonight’s game and talks about additions to his staff will take place with the club later this week.

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