James Coppinger on whether he will play on if he does not get a new deal at Doncaster Rovers

The club’s all-time leading appearance maker will reach the end of his contract at Rovers next month, at the conclusion of his 16th season at the club.

Contract talks are on hold due to the shutdown of the game and uncertainty due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Coppinger fully understands why discussions have to wait, but is clear he wants to play on next season.

“I know that I want to play next season for another year, definitely,” the 39-year-old said.

“Whether that is with Doncaster Rovers or not, I definitely want to play football next year.

“I feel like it’s something that I can offer. I feel fit as anything and I feel like I could go again for another year, at least. So why not?

“You’re only here once. And the amount of players that have told me to keep going, once it’s over it’s over.

“If you have to give everything for another year to do that, do it.”

He added: “Until we finalise what’s happening with the season, I can’t imagine that the club can really decide on the future of players.

“I’m probably like six or seven other players that are waiting to hear and that’s as far as it is really.”

Football has been shut down for more than ten weeks, with the Rovers squad placed on furlough seven weeks ago.

During the enforced break from the game, Coppinger has thrown his weight into preparing for life after playing and the various ventures he has set up over the last few years.

“For me, it’s about focusing on what’s next,” he said.

“I’ve been doing that since I was 35.

“It’s allowing me to put all my energy into it rather than just dipping my toe.

“It’s good because it gives me an insight into what’s next.

“I’m very busy, doing other things and moving in different directions.

“I’m really enjoying it and enjoying having time with the family.

“I’m still running, still keeping fit and still feeling fit.

“I’m trying to tick as many boxes as possible.”

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