Rotherham United: Grant Ward keen for Millers to wrap up loan extension

The 21-year-old has been a big hit during his Championship loan spell which ends this weekend and there is believed to be an understanding between the two clubs that he will remain at AESSEAL New York Stadium.

But Ward, an ever-present since Neil Redfearn took over as boss in October, has yet to sign any paperwork and says he has received mixed messages.

“I’m hearing there’s an agreement in place but, to be honest, I’m not 100 per cent,” he said. “I’ve heard from the people here at Rotherham that there is, but people at Spurs are telling me that it’s not. It’s something we need to sort out, for sure.”

Redfearn said a fortnight ago that parent club Spurs were happy for Ward to remain in South Yorkshire, and the player is keen to carrying on playing his part in the Millers’ survival fight.

“I feel like I’m getting better here so I would like to stay for the season,” he confirmed. “I’m confident we can stay up.”

His present deal expires on January 31 so he is available for Saturday’s home clash with Charlton Athletic, and the Millers are thought to be speaking to the North London giants this week.

One figure definitely departing Rotherham is assistant manager Eric Black, who is set for a coaching role at Premier League Aston Villa, and Redfearn is already making plans to appoint a replacement.

“It isn’t easy when people move on, but I have spoken to the chairman regarding potential candidates for the role,” he said. “We remain focused this week as we prepare for a big game on Saturday.

“Eric has had an opportunity that he felt he couldn’t turn down and we fully appreciate that, so he goes with everyone’s best wishes.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him. He has really bought into what I wanted to do here and was very popular with the players and staff.”

Black was brought in by former boss Steve Evans in the summer and had a short spell in caretaker charge before Redfearn’s arrival.

“I have really enjoyed working at Rotherham and I have met and worked with some terrific individuals,” he said.

“I didn’t know Neil before he arrived, but he was brilliant to me from day one. He is an exceptional coach, one of the best I have worked with, and, with the support of the chairman and everyone else, I am sure he will take the club forward.”

Click here for more Millers news