Walsall v Doncaster: Stalwart Jones has respect of Rovers players, insists Stuckmann

The 34-year-old German joined Paul Dickov’s side at the Keepmoat Stadium in the summer 
after leaving Preston North End.

But Dickov paid the price for a poor start to the season that has left Rovers with six points from as many games, but only three goals in the process.

Defender Jones, 35, has been put in temporary charge and faces a tough opening game at in-form Walsall.

Stuckmann has been impressed by Jones, whose appearances this season have been lmited to three games due to a long-term neck injury.

“As bad it is, we now just have to look forward to the game at Walsall,” said Stuckmann. “We have to turn the corner, there are no excuses.

“I think Rob Jones is the perfect man for us now. He has got a clear vision in mind how he wants to play football.

“I have only known Rob a few weeks, but he has got this natural authority; how he wants to play football, how the club is run, and made that clear to the players in a meeting (on Thursday morning).

“He has the respect of the dressing room. Everyone liked him as a player, and will now respect him as a manager.”

Jones will not play today, but has been given the all-clear to return to training.

“I got the green light for my neck on Monday, so I can resume training. But I haven’t trained, so it will be Rob Jones the manager this weekend,” he said.

“Walsall are a good side and started well this season, but it’s very early days.”