'Time was right' for Louis Jones according to Doncaster Rovers boss

And after his impressive performance in the win over Portsmouth on Tuesday night, the 22-year-old is in a position where it is his shirt to lose, according to the new Rovers boss.

“I spoke to Gez [Paul Gerrard, goalkeeping coach] and we had a conversation about it and we both thought it was the right time,” Butler said.

“I’m not making a big deal about it. It was just a change we thought about.

“Luckily for us it went well. Another time it might not have gone so well.

“I spoke to Ellery about it. Obviously he wanted to play in the game but at the same time, Louis has deserved a chance.

“It was the first game in charge and I live and die by the decisions.

“I made that decision and I thought Louis stepped up. He was disappointed with the goal but it was a scruffy one.

“I’m pleased. I’ve got two good keepers pushing each other and I want players pushing each other. I don’t want anyone taking their position for granted because you don’t get the best out of them.

“Now Louis has to be on his toes because if not, Ellery will come back in.”

Jones signed professional terms with Rovers four years ago this month after progressing through the youth system.

But he had to wait until this season’s Papa John’s Trophy to make his debut for his hometown club.

Butler declined to say whether he felt the keeper should have been handed more opportunities at the club in the past but is certainly confident Jones is ready now.

“It’s difficult for me to say because I wasn’t the manager before,” he said.

“I picked a team for myself and the staff and it’s worked and I’m pleased for everyone.

“I played with Louis on Wednesday in a behind-closed-doors game and you see how a keeper operates, and then you watch him in training.

“I thought his release passes were good, his bounce passes were good, his composure was excellent when he came for a few crosses and that is what you want from a keeper.”

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