With the transfer of Michael Doyle to Sheffield United now a done deal, the Coventry City manager has praised the Irish international for his professional attitude and for his hard work during his seven and a half years at the club.
Although no fee was paid by The Blades for Doyle, who has a few months left on his contract, his departure does free up funds for Boothroyd to reinvest in new players. He has signed a two and a half year contract with his former manager Mickey Adams Doyle who is now in charge at Sheffield United.
Doyle was reported to be one of the highest earners at Coventry City and the money used to pay his wages can now be used to refresh the squad.
Boothroyd praised Doyle by saying to the CT: "Michael has been a terrific servant to the club. I brought him back from Leeds last year and he has done well for us."
He wasn't first choice but he got himself in the team and he's been an absolute model professional and because he has got his head down and fits the bill in many ways, he has played a part in our season this year."
"He loves the club, he's got a new partner and just had a new baby and everything has settled down in his life and I think it is right for him and definitely right for us that he goes and takes this opportunity."
"He gets a two and a half year contract and he's on more money and everything else. It also allows us to free up a bit of money where I can reinvest it."
Doyle told reporters he will always have affection for Coventry, saying: "I can't say anything but good things about the place. I had a great rapport with the fans and hopefully I can have the same with the ones at Sheffield too."
"Some people had said about staying on and trying to get my testimonial but you can't look ahead that far in football. It was an easy decision to come here. It's a massive club and I didn't have to think twice or have the place sold to me, but, at the same time, it was difficult to leave Coventry."
"I've been there a long time and I've got some great friends around the place. One thing I am is loyal and it's a club that is always going to have a special place in my heart. I make no bones about that fact."