Forward John Marquis has hailed the influence James Coppinger has had on his career - and hopes he has learned the lessons which can prolong his career.
Midfielder Coppinger looks set to make his 600th Rovers appearance on Saturday, and Marquis was keen to praise the midfielder’s incredible achievement.
“It’s hard to explain how much he influences people. Until you see him working day in, day out I don’t think you can really estimate how much he puts in to being able to be in this position where he’s playing his 600th game for Doncaster,” he said.
“It’s the little things he does that not everyone gets to see. If people could learn anything from him it would be his professionalism and his mentality, that’s why he is where he is. Looking at someone like Copps, and having had the privilege of playing with him, even though I’m only 26, it has given me a drive and an incentive to look at myself and think what can I do now that will help me in 10 years’ time.”
Marquis looks set to line up alongside the 600 man on Saturday, and reckons there could be more landmarks ahead for him.
“He’s as driven now, or if not more driven now, as he has ever been. To be like that after everything he has achieved personally and in the team, it’s fantastic for him,” he added.
“To get to 600 games is incredible and I don’t think you’ll ever see someone do it again for Doncaster. I’d go as far as to say you probably won’t see many do it for one club again and when you look at it like that it’s a massive achievement - and Saturday should be a very special day for him.”