Doncaster Rovers: Darren Ferguson hails '˜role model' Matty Blair following PFA award

There is no one more deserving of recognition for his community work than Matty Blair.
Darren FergusonDarren Ferguson
Darren Ferguson

That is the verdict of boss Darren Ferguson after the Rovers winger was named PFA League One Community player of the year this week.

Blair has been acknowledged in recent months for spotlighting mental health issues following the much publicised death of his brother Ross.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And he has also been praised for his work in the local community on behalf of the club.

“He’s a great role model for younger people,” Ferguson told the Free Press.

“It’s not just how he’s dealt with his brother’s death. It’s also the way he is in the community. He’s always available.

“He’s a lovely lad. He’s just a good boy.

“I think he fully deserves this award.

“I don’t think it could have gone to anyone else.

“No one would have more deserved the award – there’s no doubt about that.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Ferguson also praised the Rovers squad as a whole for their attitude towards community work.

He said: “I think the players are good. I’ve got a good group that understand it’s part of their roles and job.

“There’s never really a problem with getting them out there. There are some places where you do get players moaning.

“I think in particular the local ones like Blairy, Andy Butler, they’re always available.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I think they’re a credit to the club those lads. They’re always putting themselves out there.

“It doesn’t matter where it is or when it is.

“Very rarely do the commercial team have any problem with me regarding dates or anything like that so we do try to help out as much as we can.”