Andy Butler wants his Doncaster side to use Peterborough’s celebrations as motivation for their own promotion push during the 2021-22 campaign.
Ahead of Sunday’s clash at The Keepmoat, Butler said: “We can use Peterborough getting promoted to push us on. It’s not nice to watch teams celebrating in front of us but we can draw on this, use it to drive us on and make sure it’s us there instead next season.”
Butler predicted a tough tie against the Posh, but felt that Rovers should go into the game with some confidence following their 2-2 draw with Darren Ferguson’s men at London Road just ten days ago.
“We were decent at their place, even Ferguson said that we were a real thorn in their side. It’s always nice to get a victory in the last game, especially at home.
“The onus is on us to prove we are a good side, to finish as high as we can and take the result into the start of next season.”
Butler revealed that he had been interviewed for the permanent position at The Keepmoat, with the club looking to make their appointment quickly.
“The interview went well- we have the second stage at some point in the next week or so. The club are keen to appoint someone as soon as possible so they can start getting players in.
“It can be difficult to get a squad together, so don’t want to be left on the back foot.”
Sunday’s tie is sure to be an emotional one for Rovers fans, with James Coppinger set to make the last appearance of his 17-year spell at the club.
Butler said: “James has been an unbelievable servant, he’s a Doncaster legend. Everyone in and out of football speaks so highly of him and he’s always helping the youngsters out where he can.
“What a person, what a player, what a career- all young players should be looking to emulate him.”
Butler had his own message for the Doncaster faithful, who he said will be missed on the terraces for the final game of the campaign.
“If it’s not meant to be in terms of me being in this position next season, then it’s not meant to be- but I want to thank the fans and tell them I have given everything I have for Doncaster Rovers.”
Rovers will be without Taylor Richards, who has cut short his Doncaster loan to return to Brighton and receive treatment for a groin injury. However, Butler was impressed with the way Richards had applied himself this season.
“He’s improved a lot this year. If he can put work rate and ability together, Brighton will have got some player on their hands- the way he’s adapted to League 1 football has been excellent.”
