Rotherham United: How Millers boss Paul Warne swung the battle to land Billy Jones

Veteran defender Jones, aged 31, became the Millers’ fifth acquisition of the summer last week as Warne continues to gear up for a return to the Championship.

Jones has played in the Premier League with West Brom and Sunderland, as well as having spells in the Championship with Crewe Alexandra, Preston North End and Sunderland respectively.

The defender became a free agent after his four-year stint at the Stadium of Light came to an end at the start of the month and Warne fought off a number of potential suitors to land the player.

Jones, who penned a two-year deal at AESSEAL New York Stadium, said: “It was what the manager said about having a great dressing room that really made my mind up.

“I came along to meet the gaffer here and I was really excited about joining after what he told me about how he wants his teams to play, the team ethos, and the team spirit he already has with the lads.

“The way the manager said he works, everything about the way he manages, it was really appealing.

“From the way the club has been sold to me, and the style of management, coupled with the coaches, the whole mentality of the team is something that I really buy into.”

Jones has followed in the footsteps of Clark Robertson and Kyle Vassell in making the move from League One to the second tier.

Zak Vyner has joined the Millers on loan from Bristol City while back-up goalkeeper Lewis Price has been hired again after initially leaving this summer when his deal ran out.

Rotherham are still chasing loan returns for goalkeeper Marek Rodak and midfielder Richie Towell who were instrumental in the club’s League One prpmotion last last term.

Jones believes the feel-good factor at the South Yorkshire club will bring out the best in him.

He added: “To be part of something good is fantastic for me. I am really looking forward to being part of that.

“I know when I have had success previously in the Championship and other leagues, it has been down to that. I am really looking forward to it. It has been a tough last couple of seasons at Sunderland, so it is great to have a fresh start here.”

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