Why Andy Butler gave his Doncaster Rovers players a day off on Thursday

Butler granted his players a day off on Thursday to give them the opportunity to rest up after a hectic period and ahead of Saturday’s trip to Gillingham.

And he believes a mental break will be just as valuable as a physical one as Rovers look to shake off their recent disappointing performances.

“We actually gave them the day off on Thursday and allowed them to refresh in their minds and bodies and step back from football a little bit,” he said.

“Hopefully they’ll come in on Friday refreshed and ready to go for a tough battle because the games are coming thick and fast. There’s been quite a lot of travelling lately as well.

“It would have been all about recovery on Thursday, even if we trained. We felt it was the right time to let the players recover at home and enjoy a bit of family time.

“I think the mental side of it is important. Football takes up a lot of your time and it takes a lot of mental strength to compete week in, week out.

“You have to take your opportunities for players to have their rest. It’s important that you allow not just their bodies but their minds to reset as well.

“I think it’s important for the players to step away from football a bit and reflect on how they can improve. Hopefully they’ll come back in ready for a tough game.”

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