Influence of manager Darren Ferguson vital in Cameron Stewart's decision to stay with Doncaster Rovers

The Ipswich Town winger joined the Keepmoat Stadium club earlier in the campaign, prior to Ferguson’s arrival, and has been a witness to the club’s surge up the League One table. Rovers are currently 12th.

Stewart made 17 appearances for the team in his initial loan spell before returning to Portman Road when his loan expired on January 2. He agreed to extend his stay until the end of the season on Thursday.

In part, the former Leeds United and Hull City man credited Ferguson for the decision to stay another six months.

Asked about the manager, Stewart said: “He did have a big influence. I was here earlier in the season, enjoyed the training and the games and really wanted to come back and the gaffer seemed like he wanted me to come back.

“I was delighted when he gave me a call to come back and play more games.”

Doncaster were 20th in the League One table when Ferguson arrived on October 16, on equal points with Oldham Athletic in the last relegation spot. They are now nine points clear of the drop zone and only six points away from Peterborough United in sixth.

Stewart admitted the atmosphere at the club has improved compared to when he first arrived.

He said: “It’s very different in comparison to when I first signed.

“When I first signed results were very indifferent and we were lower down the league.

“Things are starting to pick up, and you can see that around the place.

“That’s not just with the way the boys are playing, but the smiles on faces around the place, including both players and fans.”