James Coppinger discusses his future at Doncaster Rovers

James Coppinger has admitted his ‘frustrating’ lack of game time for Doncaster Rovers since the start of February has seen him question the future of his career.
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But the 39-year-old said he would be delighted to receive the offer of a fresh contract from the club.

Coppinger will reach the end of his current deal this summer, at the conclusion of his 16th season with Rovers.

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Earlier this season he spoke of his strong desire to play on, with his own personal fitness and enjoyment levels remaining high.

James CoppingerJames Coppinger
James Coppinger

But having played in only two of Rovers’ last seven matches, he told the Free Press while he hopes to continue, he will not make any major predictions about his future at this stage.

“As always, it’s about taking it week to week, month to month,” he said.

“Probably in the last month of the season I played as little minutes as I’ve played, ever really.

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“It was frustrating - although I do understand the manager doing what he was doing.

“It wasn’t just me, it was everyone and he was picking a team to win a game which is understandable.

“It’s something I have to come to terms with at 39.”

Coppinger missed the trip to Tranmere Rovers in early February due to a routine injection to combat ‘footballer’s ankle.’

While he admitted the break was good for him, he feels he was back up to speed several weeks before the campaign was halted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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“I know I always say it but I do feel really fit and strong,” he said.

“Over the last couple of weeks of the season I was feeling really good and getting back to normal.

“I started 25 of the first 28 games and I think it took its toll.

“It was good to have a bit of a breather and I was looking forward to finishing the season strong.

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“From that perspective I’d love to keep playing and keep going.

“But you never know what is around the corner, particularly at the minute.

“I’ve still got the love for football and the motivation to keep doing it.

“I’ll be delighted if something was there in the summer.”

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