James Coppinger stands on the verge of another significant Rovers milestone - but insists the time to reflect upon it will not come until he hangs up his boots.
The 37-year-old has featured in 499 EFL games for the club since joining in 2004, and could become only the 99th person to feature 500 times in the competition for one club as early as Saturday when Charlton Athletic visit the Keepmoat Stadium.
“It’s a nice milestone to reach and a great achievement for myself, to play that many games for one club is a big thing and when it does happen I’ll enjoy that moment,” he said.
“But milestones aren’t something you can dwell on too much, they’re more something to look back on once you stop playing, I feel there is plenty of time left in my career to achieve more accolades.
“To be at a club for 14 years and play 40 games a season is a sign I’ve kept myself fit and healthy, I’ve worked hard on consistency and making sure I’m in the team.”
The latest milestone comes a season after he marked his 500th competitive outing with a goal in the 5-1 success at Morecambe.
“There was more pressure with the Morecambe game last season given where we were in the league, that was an extra special day and it’s right up there with the best in my career,” he added.
“You’ve just got to do the basics right. I look after myself and take enough time out during the off-season to allow my body and mind to relax in the period before pre-season gets underway. Although five or six weeks sounds like a long time off, it soon comes around to the new season, so as a player you have to make sure you’re ready to get going.”
James Coppinger is the programme interview for Saturday’s visit of Charlton Athletic. The programme costs just £3 and is available from booths outside the Keepmoat Stadium.
Tickets for the game are available now from the Club Doncaster Box Office on 01302 762576 or by going to tickets.clubdoncaster.co.uk.