'Who thought a boy from Balby would manage a team like Doncaster Rovers?' - Andy Butler's pride at leading his hometown club

Butler is in temporary charge of the club after manager Darren Moore and senior coaches Jamie Smith and Paul Gerrard were forced to self isolate following contact with a confirmed case of Covid-19.

And he helped guide Rovers to a 5-1 win over FC United of Manchester in the first round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

Having only been asked to take the reins on Thursday night, it has been a whirlwind few days for the 37-year-old.

“On Thursday I was more nervous about speaking to the players one on one than I was the game,” he said.

“I relish these times.

“I’m really thankful that the club and the gaffer have trusted me in taking this game.

“Who thought a boy from Balby would manage a team like Doncaster Rovers?

“I’m really proud and really pleased.”

Butler confirmed Moore had selected the team to face FC United but he had been given control of things on the day.

“I spoke to the gaffer on Thursday and Friday and he named the team and the bench,” he said.

“Then it was free reign from there.

“He gave me advice on what to do but all the subs were mine and Nick’s decisions which they said they would accept.

“They told us to go and enjoy ourselves so we did.

“The manager will still have input and I’m here to keep the team going.

“The manager is still in charge and I will just basically input what he is saying.

“This is a massive learning curve for me and one I’m really enjoying.”

Butler called on his assistant manager from the Belles Nick Buxton to help out with leading Rovers and felt a familiar voice alongside him was vital.

“My first game in charge and it’s great to have Nick alongside me as well,” he said.

“I love working with Nick. We bounce off each other at the Belles so I thought it would be perfect to bring him in and share the experience with him.

“The backroom staff and the players have been really helpful.

“It’s not just foreign territory.”

Butler will remain in charge for Tuesday’s Papa John's Trophy clash with Wolves U21s.

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