Gaffer says that he faces a selection headache and will make the tough calls.
Rob Jones has admitted that he faces a selection dilemma ahead of Saturday’s vital derby clash with local rivals Barnsley.Rovers host the Reds and Jones said he can be “ruthless” to the point of leaving roommate Paul Keegan out of Tuesday night’s draw with Swindon.
“It’s becoming more and more difficult to pick an eleven and pick a bench even. There are not many young kids on the bench anymore; there’s experience and a wealth of intelligence.
“Ruthless? Yes I am. Keegs is my roomie when we go on trips and it was difficult to leave him out but I have to be ruthless and the one who makes the decisions because that’s the position I’ve put myself in and I won’t shy away from that.
“I think all managers’ want selection headaches. If you get to the point where the team picks itself then you’re in a bit of trouble.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been at that stage; the squad’s getting stronger and stronger all the time. People are coming back to fitness at good times and players are now at that point where they want to be on the pitch.”
Jones, who came through the first half hour against the Robins, admitted the gamble to play himself backfired somewhat and he will almost certainly miss the game against Lee Johnson’s Tykes.
“Myself? Not great. But aside from that, we’re all okay,” Jones admitted.
“On another day it could have gone really well and I could have lasted 90 minutes. In this job you have all sorts of priorities but I’m not too fussed about me to be honest because I’ll mend and I’ll be fine.
“I need a win because it’s what Doncaster Rovers need and it’s as simple as that. I said on Saturday and on Monday that it’s not about me, it’s about Doncaster Rovers and always has been. It’s not about individuals because they don’t win anything.
“We’ve got to deliver and it’s as simple as that. We can keep saying its coming but we’ve got to cement it. Yes, we’ve been unlucky on two occasions against Oldham and Swindon but we’ve got to go out and get that win.
“We showed signs of it not being far away and in our grasp. The most positive and pleasing side was the reaction of the players in the aftermath on Tuesday and it showed that they’re desperate to do well and move the club forward.
“We’re really pleased with the performances of the players and how strong we were in the second half, how we played in the final third and I’m very buoyant and positive, looking forward to Saturday.”
Tickets for Doncaster Rovers v Barnsley can be bought by CLICKING HERE or calling 01302 762576.