Rotherham United: Stewart prepared to keep faith in Warne

The interim boss has impressed in his three matches at the helm of the Championship Millers since being asked to fill the gap created by the shock resignation of Kenny Jackett.

And chairman Tony Stewart is prepared to leave the fitness coach, who will lead Rotherham in Saturday’s South Yorkshire derby at Sheffield Wednesday, in the hot-seat for longer unless a standout permanent candidate emerges.

“Warney is Rotherham United through and through and the players have responded to him being given the reins,” Stewart said.

“He’s bright and he’s positive. He’s lifted them and the club. They’re playing for him, you can see that.”

“The Owls derby will be his fourth match and the plan has always been to review the situation after four games.

“It needs a quick decision, with the January transfer window approaching, as, like a lot of clubs, we intend to be busy. We will have decided one way or the other by Monday.”

Stewart and his advisors have compiled a shortlist after receiving around 50 applications but no interviews have been scheduled.

The Millers will be well aware that highly-respected Gary Rowett is out of work after his sacking earlier this week by Birmingham City, despite the Blues being close to a second-tier play-off spot.

The club don’t comment on speculation. However, it would be a major surprise if enquires aren’t being made in the 42-year-old’s direction.

The ill-fated reigns of Alan Stubbs and Jackett left Rotherham at the foot of the table, but Warne, 43, a Millers playing legend, has made a big impact since stepping up and he inspired only a second win of the season, at home to QPR last Saturday.

Captain Lee Frecklington has led the calls for Warne to stay in the job, and Stewart likes what he has seen so far.

“He has brought us some stability at a difficult time,” the chairman said.

“The fact that the skipper has come out publicly to support him tells you something.”

Meanwhile, the club’s new head of recruitment, whose name has yet to be officially announced, is expected to be behind his desk before the transfer window opens.

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