James Coppinger

James Coppinger (born 18 January 1981) is an English former professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. He began his career at Newcastle United, making one appearance in the Premier League, and later spent two years at Exeter City, but is best known for his association with Doncaster Rovers, whom he represented over seventeen seasons between 2004 and his retirement in 2021. The only player ever to make over 600 appearances for Doncaster, he currently serves the club in a mentorship role. He is a former England under-16 international. Career Early career Born in Guisborough, Cleveland, Coppinger started his career as a trainee for Darlington in 1997, though he was signed by fellow north-east side Newcastle United before he even made an appearance. Aged 17, he moved to Newcastle in a £500,000 joint deal with 19-year-old Paul Robinson in March 1998 when Kenny Dalglish was manager.