'The grass is not always greener' - Andy Butler gives a warning as he updates on contract negotiations at Doncaster Rovers

Andy Butler insists no players have told Doncaster Rovers they want to leave the club in the summer.
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Rovers are currently in contract talks with several players whose deals expire this summer and at least four have verbally agreed to sign the fresh terms.

The Free Press understands one player has informed the club he wishes to discuss his future at the end of the season, when he will be able to hear potential offers from other suitors also.

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Manager Butler says no one has informed the club of their intention to leave at the end of the campaign but he knows there will be competition in their bid to retain certain players.

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“They are all happy with the environment they’re in but in football, money and ambition talks,” he said.

“Some players have got ambitions of playing for Championship sides and some will want more money, which other clubs will be able to offer.

“It’s a decision they’ve got to make.”

When it comes to finances, Butler says Rovers will not be drawn into a bidding war over wages.

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“What we have to stand by is our philosophy, how the club works and the environment in which we operate,” he said. “I think that is our selling point.

“If they want to go off to pastures new and try their hands elsewhere, that’s up to them.

“But I know this club and we know it’s in a stable position. We won’t go out of our reach to get people to stay. We’ve offered them a contract we think they are worth and if they don’t accept then they will move on with our well wishes.”

Reflecting on his own experience during his career, Butler has warned players that the grass is not always greener on the other side and moving on may not be the best option for their careers.

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“I know the environment we’re in, and the players and surroundings that we’ve got, it’s a nice environment to be in and work,” he said.

“It’s not always as great if you go elsewhere, which I’ve found out in my past career.

“As much as you think the grass is greener, it’s not always.

“Sometimes being in an environment you enjoy working in can help you progress further. And hopefully we can progress together.”

Read More
Reminder: The Doncaster Rovers players whose contracts expire in the summer

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