Andy Butler rejects suggestions Doncaster Rovers players are letting him down

But he has demanded more positive reactions and resolve from his team as he seeks to end their incredible downturn in form.

Rovers have won just two of their last 14 matches and taken only two points from the last 21 available to drop to five points off the League One play-off places.

Their performance in the 2-1 defeat at Bristol Rovers on Monday saw a feeble lack of fight from the team as they surrendered the advantage, leading to questions over whether they are doing a disservice to their manager.

“I wouldn’t say letting me down,” Butler told the Free Press.

“You have to look at yourself as an individual and as a team. I wouldn’t say it was me they were letting down.

“They’re human, they will make mistakes but I just want to see positive reactions from them.

“If they lose the ball, it doesn't matter but you’ve got to go and win it back.

“It’s hard for me to put my finger on it if I’m honest - and that is me being brutally honest.

“I still see the same players in the dressing room from when I was a player and I would like to think that they are giving everything for me.

“I’ll never question their attitude because I see it every day in training. It’s just transferring it from the training ground to the pitch, which at the moment has been difficult.”

On why positivity on the training ground is not being transferred onto the pitch on matchday, Butler believes doubt has crept into players’ minds.

“I think you come across stages in the season and in your career where you doubt yourself,” he said.

“It’s not through a lack of trying because they are trying really hard.

“They can over-try if that is a correct term. They can think about things too much and overthink them, overcomplicate things in their head.

“When you find players full of confidence it just comes naturally. Now I feel like the players are doubting themselves, for that pass, thinking about it too much and moving it on too slowly.

“That is something I’ve got to address.”

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.