Doncaster Rovers boss welcomes options as Tyreece John-Jules closes in on a start

The striker has made two 30 minute appearances under the guidance of parent club Arsenal following his recovery from a hamstring injury which kept him out of action for three months.

And he has now been given the green light for a longer appearance as Rovers host Fleetwood Town on Saturday, though Butler remained tight-lipped over whether the 20-year-old would be handed a start.

“It’s a positive for us because I thought he was excellent when he came on for us on Tuesday,” Butler said. “He was a real handful and a threat.

“He will be involved, without giving the team news away.

“He’s trained well again and we’ll manage him whether we start him or use him as an impact sub. He made a great impact the other day.”

John-Jules came off the bench to score the equaliser for Rovers against Accrington Stanley in midweek.

With the striker restricted to a half hour spell and scant other attacking options on the bench, it was difficult for Butler to change up his team in order to battle their way into the game.

So the Rovers boss has understandably welcomed John-Jules’ progress, plus the news that Omar Bogle will be available for Tuesday’s trip to Peterborough United as he continues to shake off a calf issue.

“It gives us options,” Butler said.

“I thought Fej [Okenabirhie] was excellent against Shrewsbury. He lacked some service at Accrington if I’m being honest.

“This gives us good options to ponder on. You look at other squads and teams and the changes they have are all similar players, like for like changes.

“We’ve not had a striker on the bench for a lot of games and you’re asking your strikers to play a full 90 minutes where it’s difficult and we know that.

“There’s no real striking options to bring on and change it because we’re limited in that area.”

Butler confirmed Brad Halliday remains doubtful for Saturday’s clash with Fleetwood due to his on-going back injury while Josh Sims is expected to return from illness.

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