Doncaster Rovers defender says Danny Schofield has been ‘breath of fresh air’ for his career

Defender Long was brought to the club by ex-Rovers boss Gary McSheffrey this summer but found himself on the fringes of the team in the opening few months of the season.

The 21-year-old, who signed from Wigan Athletic on a two-year deal, has played the last seven consecutive games, however, including the first four of Schofield’s reign as part of a three-man defence.

Long said: "It’s been a breath of fresh air for me, being able to get some minutes under my belt and some confidence.

"Ever since he came in I feel like we have become a better team.

“He’s been good with everyone, he’s got really good man-management, he’s been able to speak to the lads and coach on a one-to-one basis as well as the group.”

Doncaster have shifted to a possession-based approach since Schofield’s arrival – with mixed results.

After picking up their first win in three attempts under the new boss against Gillingham, Rovers were outplayed against non-league part-timers King’s Lynn last weekend and dumped out of the FA Cup.

But Long insists he shares his manager’s confidence the team is on the right track.

He said: “We got off to a really good start to the season then through factors that sometimes we couldn’t control it dipped a bit.

"Since he came in we have started to adapt to a new style of play which the lads are really gelling to.

"I firmly believe the more we practice the fundamentals we will be able to push on.”

Doncaster return to League Two action tomorrow when they take on Grimsby Town, who are two points and two places below them in the table.

A win could take Schofield’s side level on points with Carlisle United in the final play-off position.

Paul Hurst’s Grimsby have lost their last two matches in the league but knocked League One leaders Plymouth Argyle out of the FA Cup last weekend.

On Wednesday they beat Manchester City’s Under-21s on penalties to progress to the EFL Trophy knockout stage.

Long said: “We feel like it’s a chance to go out there on Saturday and put stuff right.

"It’s important for us to get off to a good start.”