‘If he wants to go on, long may it continue’ - Darren Moore on contract talks with James Coppinger at Doncaster Rovers

The club’s all-time record appearance maker will reach the end of his current deal at the conclusion of the campaign.

Coppinger has suggested on several occasions over the season that he has no intention of retiring from the game just yet.

Moore says the 39-year-old’s thoughts and feelings on continuing his career will be top of the agenda when the two meet for tentative discussions over a potential new deal.

“He’s one again that conversations will need to be had about him going forward,” the Rovers boss said.

“How does Copps feel? That is another thing we’ve got to look at.

“How is his body, in terms of the wear and tear of the season to now.

“He’ll say he’s still fresh as a daisy and if he wants to go on, then long may it continue. Why not?

“We’ll be sitting down with Copps and having a good chat with him. It’ll be face to face and about how he feels towards the end of the season.”

Moore paid tribute to the continued contribution of the forward, both on and off the pitch.

“Copps continues to defy logic in terms of where he’s been at and where he is in his career,” he said.

“He’s a wonderful servant for the football club. His contract is coming up as well.

“What I will say is that he’s been a breath of fresh air with his workrate and commitment.

“He’s fully committed to what we’re doing here and fully committed to the club as we know.

“I’ve got huge admiration for him for what he’s done in the game and what he’s still doing in the game now.

“The commitment that he shows towards us and on the training ground with the younger players is exceptional.”

Coppinger has made 33 appearances for Rovers this season, scoring four goals.