'Hopefully we'll get the win for him' - Darren Moore on logic-defying James Coppinger on his 39th birthday

The club's record appearance maker will celebrate his 39th birthday on Saturday and mark the occasion with an outing against on-form Coventry City at the Keepmoat.

Coppinger has long been lauding for his defiance of time by continuing to operate at a high level and showing few signs of slowing down.

And Moore says the veteran continues to set the standards for others to follow at the club.

"He's an individual that is defying logic in the game," Moore said.

"Credit to him, he's a joy to work with in training and still a talented individual.

"He still have the thirst, hunger and desire.

"He sets standards with the younger players here and has a wonderful empathy and respect for the game.

"I'm really joyful that in my coaching and managerial career that I've had the opportunity to manage him.

"It's working well and long may it continue.

"Even in footballing terms, in the grand old age that he is, he is still a young man and he has a zest and knowledge to want to know even more in the game.

"Hopefully we're giving him aspects in his game that he sees from a different angle.

"But his ability for the team is unquestionable and long may that continue."

Moore revealed Coppinger's name remains on the lips of other managers in conversations around games.

And he hopes Saturday can be a cause for celebration not just for Coppinger, but for Rovers as a whole.

"Even when we go to other clubs, opposition manager mention him which is credit to James because of his consistent level," Moore said.

"It's his 16th season here and that's incredible.

"Certainly on Saturday we'll wish him a happy birthday and hopefully we'll get the win for him.

"I'd like to say it's his 16th birthday, but it's not.

"It's really good for Copps on the day and I'm sure we'll all celebrate the day with him.

"If there's any cake eating, we'll leave it until after the game."