Dan Butterworth scored for a third successive home game for loan club Port Vale and said: ‘this is the best I have felt in a long time’.

Butterworth’s solo goal helped see off Charlton Athletic, having also netted the winner against Lincoln City last month, as well in the FA Cup tie against Exeter City.

It was a sixth start for the attacker since joining the Valiants on a season-long loan deal from Rovers on deadline day.

It is the second time Butterworth has spent time away from Ewood Park on loan, having finished last season at Fleetwood Town.

The 23-year-old endured a disappointing pre-season, failing to start any of the first-team fixtures, but believes he’s finding top form at Vale Park.

He told the club’s website: “I think I am getting in those positions more, confidence is a big thing and this is the best I have felt in a long time. I feel like I can go out there and play with freedom, knowing I have the backing of the staff and the players.

“I feel good and want to keep getting in those areas to score goals.

“I think I have grown into the squad quite quickly with the way the lads have been with me; I have got a lot of respect for them and they respect me.

“They have helped me massively and I feel like I have been here a lot longer than I have already and I think that is a good thing and shows the togetherness of the club.”

 

 

Butterworth has made 17 first-team appearances for Rovers after making his debut in August 2018, with his Championship debut coming against QPR last October.

Fitness issues have hampered his development, but Vale assistant boss Andy Crosby said his talent has never been in question.

“He has incredible talent. In possession, he can create chances and score, he can play the final pass,” Crosby said of Butterworth.

“That is not in any doubt. He has to add other things to his game to become a more all-round player but he has a desire to improve and credit to him.”

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