Preston set an example for clubs like Millers

Preston North End v Rotherham United

IT REMAINS to be seen when Rotherham United’s next visit to Deepdale will be after Good Friday.

Preston’s famous home houses the National Football Museum’s archive, while the club itself also provides a glimpse into what a successful future can look like in the Championship if everything aligns.

A bigger club than Rotherham for sure, but not by a huge distance, Preston have shown what is possible if you move up from the third tier and are striving to consolidate in the level above over time and then build incrementally.

It’s something that has eluded the Millers since the 1960s in truth.

Leam Richardson, whose side’s relegation could be confirmed today, but more likely next week, said: “Any football club that is functioning very well and sustaining and going in a really good direction is a model for anyone.

"I am sure Rotherham has been a model for other (lower) clubs over the years.

"It’s something we are very mindful of and we want to be the best version of ourselves.

"With Preston being our next game, it’s a fantastic football club with Peter Ridsdale running it and the staff in place there who I know very well and the fanbase is excellent.

"They have been very supportive through thick and thin, which is what all football clubs should be.

"It’s something we are very mindful of – and I am – that we have to rebuild an organisation in a positive way and light and make proactive decisions.

"That certainly starts with myself and if I get the green light to enact on many of those things. And I will do because we will only benefit from that.”