Mailbag: 'Name a stand after him', 'Retire the 26 shirt' - Doncaster Rovers fans respond to our James Coppinger opinion piece

I watched Copps’ latest magic on iFollow, listening to brilliant commentary from Robbie Andrews and the man who has a nailed on job in the media when he stops playing (Mr ‘Chess’ Amos).

Paul Goodwin: James Coppinger deserves more than a car park named after him

Maybe the reality of his playing days drawing to a close really dawned on us during his raw, but truly humbling, post match interview – and with nearly the same intensity as it did for Copps.

Quite honestly, I watched it the next day and I defy anyone not to get misty-eyed.

Copps’ values appear to have become less prevalent in recent times but they are the foundations of truly inspiring people.

For what it’s worth, I’d retire the number 26 shirt, name a stand after him and make sure he has an advisory role with the club, should he wish to have one, for as long as he wishes.

Most importantly, for the fans, Copps’ contract must be extended to allow him to play in front of the Rovers fans before he finally hangs up his boots.

I can see the Keepmoat Stadium at capacity with most wearing gold shirts giving the legend that James Coppinger is, the sense of just how much he has meant and will continue to mean to so many.

Stuart Brocklehurst, UAE

Our article also sparked plenty of supportive comments on social media…

Former Rovers captain Rob Jones said: “Minimum a stand named after him.”

Former Rovers striker Lee Turnbull said: “Should absolutely name the main stand after Copps! Proper Legend status.”

Steve Kendrick said: “I hope the club can find a fitting ongoing role, legend is a much overused word in football, but is richly deserved in this case. I do think naming a stand would be a fitting tribute, I just hope commercial naming rights don't get in the way."

Iain Affleck said: “100% Paul! In an era when players move around and engineer moves, to have a player to commit to a town as he has is worthy of a major statement. He has brightened people’s lives.”

Malcolm Brown said: “Totally agree. In an earlier post I did suggest a Stand named after him - THE JAMES COPPINGER Stand. It would be a fitting tribute to such a loyal man.”

Howard Dodgson said: “Fantastic service. A shining example to everyone concerned with football.”

William Boulby said: “I quite agree, but in addition we should have something for John Ryan too, without him the football club would just be a distant memory by now.”

Owen Dale said: “I think James Coppinger is one of the best professionals to ever play for any local team. He needs something to help keep people in the area aware of his contribution personally I hope he finds a position within the Doncaster set up as a positivity coach.”

What do you think? Email [email protected] or tweet @paulgoodwinJPI.