Coach previews visit of the Robins.
Doncaster Rovers first team coach Paul Butler addressed the media prior to Tuesday evening’s game against Swindon Town at Keepmoat Stadium.Butler’s presence sparked questions about Rob Jones’ availability for the game against the Robins considering the absence of Gary MacKenzie due to suspension; however Butler declared: “You can read in to it what you want!”
“Rob has trained sporadically throughout the interim period so today is no different to any other day,” said Butler.
“We’ve got to remember that he’s still a professional footballer who is still contracted to the club, as well as being the caretaker manager, and it’s not something that is new to him.
“We’re fortunate in a sense that our players showed good professionalism (in the 3-1 loss to Sheffield United) and are able to do that and give their all to the best of their ability.”
Butler highlighted Swindon’s strengths and weaknesses and sees similarities between themselves and Doncaster going in to a fixture which could see the hosts move within a point of their guests.
“Swindon are a good football team and their last three results have not been desirable – similar to ourselves – but what we do know is that they’re a side that like to manipulate the ball, pass and move and play their way through the thirds,” said Butler.
“They’re very conscientious with their tactics in terms of their roles and responsibilities of how to play with and without the ball.
“They like to play with movement and style and anyone who’s watched them over the last 12 months will see that. They’ve lost a few key players over the summer which has affected their system, not that that is the be all and end all.”
Rovers have brought Manchester City academy product James Horsfield to the club on a 28 day loan and it will be hoped that the versatile midfielder can provide a similar impact to that of Crystal Palace youngster Keshi Anderson who made his Football League debut at Bramall Lane.
“Keshi who’s just come in went from playing up front to playing in a wide position which is something he’s not used to so early in his footballing career,” Butler said.
“We like him, we’re all very positive about him. He’s a lively, young, enthusiastic character and plays with a smile on his face, which, we as coaches, like to see.
“He showed that – particularly in the early stages – and created a couple of opportunities. He got himself in to good positions and trains and plays with a lot of energy and he’s very coachable which is a recipe for what we want from players at this club.”