James Coppinger on the challenge of reduced game time at Doncaster Rovers

He is not playing as much football as he would like at the moment but James Coppinger certainly gives the impression he is enjoying the challenge that presents.
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The 39-year-old has started only six of Rovers’ 13 matches so far this season, which is set to be his last as a professional footballer.

While he would have liked to have been on the pitch more, he is only focused on proving his worth for future selection.

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“I want to play every minute of every game and that is why I’m still playing football and I genuinely believe I can still do that,” he said.

James CoppingerJames Coppinger
James Coppinger

“So when I do get my opportunities it’s up to me to take it.

“When I came on the manager wanted me to try to control a bit more of the possession, which I felt I did, and then I got the goal at the end.

“For me it’s about when I get the opportunity to try to help the lads, I want to be a big part of this team this season.

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“I have to adapt to what that role looks like and what that role means to the manager because he’s the one that picks the team.”

Coppinger came off the bench to score an injury time equaliser in Rovers’ 2-2 draw at AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday night.

It capped a strong performance over the final half hour from the veteran - one he believes shows he has adapted to what Darren Moore wants from players in his position, even if it is more difficult with less game time.

“I’ve never been in a situation as a player where I’ve not had as many minutes,” he said.

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“I’ve averaged 40-odd games a season for 18 years so for me it’s about managing myself when I’m not playing.

“I need to be training really hard.

“I played 80 minutes at Plymouth and felt really good.

“But the more minutes I get, the better I am. So if I’m not getting the minutes then it’s really difficult.

“At the same time it’s up to me to be ready, like tonight.

“Even though I am 39, coming up to 40, I still have the appetite to play and start games.

“I get it. We have got some really good, talented, energetic young players and if I can change the game like I did tonight and offer something different, that’s what it’s all about for me.”

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Coppinger was confident he would find the net on Tuesday night and open his tally for the campaign.

“It’s the best feeling ever, scoring goals and just contributing,” he said.

“I had a feeling that I was going to score.

“I’ve not had that many opportunities this season but to come on, I felt like I was going to score.

“I set one back for Ben when I could have hit it and I wished I had hit it.

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“That one, I knew as soon as I hit it and I could see the goalkeeper scrambling.

“You need that luck, and I’m just happy to get off the mark.”

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.