Andy Butler talks his decision to play in Doncaster Rovers' win over Shrewsbury Town and why he won't take credit for the victory

Having previously declared his intention to temporarily retire from playing after taking on the manager’s job, Butler named himself at centre half for the trip to the New Meadow.

And after an impressive performance both individually and collectively, Butler emerged with the third win of his 12 match tenure as boss.

“Every individual player put a performance out there and, if anything, they carried me through 90 minutes,” Butler said.

“It’s not ideal, managing and playing at the same time. But we had a few injuries. I trained Thursday and Friday and thought why not?

“There were injuries and things that went on. I just thought it was the right time.

“I know I said earlier that I was retiring for the foreseeable future but things happen in life and you put the boots back on and feel like you’ve never been away.

“I’m pleased with that but take it away from me, it’s about what all the other players that played a part did.

“I’m not taking any credit. I’ve got a fantastic staff that help me and it’s obviously difficult when you’re another staff member down.”

On whether he will play again in the six remaining matches, Butler said circumstances will dictate his decisions.

And he says his performance against the Shrews has not altered his desire to manage Rovers beyond the end of the season.

“It depends on injuries and what the team formation requires,” he said.

“It’s not about me, it’s about Doncaster Rovers as a club and a squad.

“I’ll pick the best XI that I think will win the game.

“I still want to go into management and if I can player-manage, then who knows.

“I have got some thinking to do but it’s good thoughts.

“I still believe I can still do the best of both jobs given time.”

Butler has indicated that he will submit an application for the manager’s job, with the club accepting applications until Monday afternoon.

The 37-year-old has a year remaining on his playing contract with the club.

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