Barlaser news lifts Millers’ promotion ambitions
ROTHERHAM UNITED manager Paul Warne has been in the game long enough to know that the Millers’ post-Christmas glut of League One victories was never going to last indefinitely.
But do not for one moment think that he is perturbed by a run – of one win in four matches – following a stunning return of eight in nine games before that.
The Millers’ second-placed position is still decidedly healthy and one which the club would have gladly taken in August.
Warne admits he would be a lot less relaxed if his side were not performing well or creating chances, but that is manifestly not the case.
He said: “I did not think we were very good in the second half against Coventry, but apart from that, our performances have been good.
“We should have taken three points against Wimbledon and MK Dons, hence why we said after the Coventry game that it was a wasted opportunity as we should have taken three points there. But you do not always get what you deserve.
“We have to try and drive performance. The effort level is there and the lads are desperate to win football games and it is our job to take them back off that desperation a little bit. Possibly they are too keen to do it.
“It is disappointing we have not picked up three points, but we are still a point closer to where we want to get to.
“You cannot control everything. Sometimes, it is the width off the post like it was on Saturday when Freddie (Ladapo) had a good chance and Smudge (Michael Smith) had a good couple of chances. That is just how it is and we will build up for the next one.”
Warne has confirmed that influential playmaker Dan Barlaser is set to return to training shortly – and could be in the fray for the game with Southend on Saturday week.
Barlaser, one of the form midfielders in the division, was stretchered off with an ankle injury amid worrying scenes against Coventry on February 25.
Fears were subsequently allayed that Barlaser will be sidelined for most of the run-in following a scan.
Warne has now provided a further positive update ahead of his side’s trip to Rochdale tomorrow where the Millers are expected to be backed by a bumper travelling contingent of almost 2,000.
He said: “Dan looks like he’s got the all-clear, which is good. He will be back training towards the back end of this week or start of next.”