Team news: Andy Butler names himself in Doncaster Rovers side to face Shrewsbury Town

The centre half declared his intention to hang up his boots, at least temporarily, after taking on the manager’s job until the end of the season as he felt he needed to put his full focus into leading the squad.

But the Free Press understands the 37-year-old has grown increasingly frustrated at the sloppy performances from his side in recent weeks, as well as a lack of leadership on the pitch.

Despite denying it was the case, he had considered playing in recent games. The final straw proved to be the defensive errors in Tuesday’s defeat to Burton Albion.

And so he has thrown caution to the wind, naming himself in his starting XI as he seeks to guide Rovers out of their current slump in form.

His inclusion is one of three changes, with Omar Bogle missing out of the squad entirely. AJ Greaves and Branden Horton drop to the bench.

Coming in alongside Butler is Taylor Richards and the returning Reece James.

Asked earlier this week whether he had considered playing again this season, Butler said.“I love playing football but I want to give everything I possibly can to Doncaster Rovers as a manager and help my players.

“I love football. People who know me know I eat and sleep football - not that I’ve had a lot of sleep recently.

“I love being out there but at the same time I’ve got a job to do.”

Rovers: Balcombe; Wright, Anderson, Butler, James; Smith, Bostock; Coppinger, Richards, Sims; Okenabirhie. Subs: Jones, Horton, John, Greaves, Edward, Lokilo, John-Jules.

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