Bolton v Rotherham: Match preview

Rotherham's visit to Bolton on Saturday takes on extra importance after last week's horror show against Charlton.

It is a game they can ill-afford to lose and Neil Redfearn will be desperate for his side to show the best of themselves.

Here is an in-depth preview of the Macron Stadium clash.

Team news

Rotherham are unlikely to risk Aimen Belaid as he recovers from a groin injury.

The Tunisian returned to light training on Thursday, but looks set to miss out at the Macron Stadium.

And there is no better news with the Millers’ other absentees as Lee Frecklington (hamstring), Leon Best (groin) and Stephen Kelly (calf) are all still some way off fitness.

Redfearn is almost certain to start Andrew Shinnie in the number 10 role, meaning Paul Green could miss out, while Luciano Becchio will be hoping that the manager will deploy a 4-4-2 formation instead having been brought on at half-time against Charlton.

What the manager says

Redfearn, who began his career at Bolton, knows his side cannot afford to take the bottom-club lightly at the weekend.

The boss said: “We know that if we don’t get it right, if we’re not at full tilt then we could get beaten.

“It’s a great game to play in, they’ve found a bit of form. If you look at their squad, they should be mid-table.

“For one reason or another they have found themselves in this position.

“You can attribute it to the strength of this division and if you get on a bad run it is difficult to get out of. We’re doing well to be swimming at this level and keeping our heads above water.”

The opposition

Redfearn is right to be wary of Neil Lennon’s side, who have taken four points from their last two games.

They were easy 3-1 victors over MK Dons in their last home encounter in the league while they produced a superb comeback to take a point against Wolves in midweek having been 2-0 down going into the final 10 minutes.

Victory for Bolton will breathe further life into their bid for the great escape and will take them to within a point of the Millers.

Darren Pratley, Gary Madine and Zach Clough are all hoping to return to contention.

Skipper Pratley and striker Madine both missed the midweek draw at Wolves due to back injuries, while Clough is closing in on a return from a hip problem which has kept him out of the last five matches.

Things to look out for

How will the Millers respond?

The Millers have had a free week to cleanse their minds after Saturday’s damaging defeat against Charlton. Although the nature of the loss was alarming, the Millers could easily have taken something out of the game had key incidents gone differently, but they simply have to produce a response in Lancashire. There have been plenty of low moments under Redfearn so far, but they have in the main been followed by an impressive response. The harrowing defeat to Ipswich was followed by a 1-0 win at Leeds while a 2-0 success over Hull came just days after a horror show at Huddersfield. There has to be a similar sort of response on Saturday.

Bolton looking for revenge

While the Millers have reason to be at it on Saturday, so do Bolton. Their 4-0 reverse at New York Stadium on Boxing Day was their lowest point of the season and had boss Lennon fearing the sack. They will fancy their chances of redemption as well, with performances and results in recent weeks improving. They took fellow relegation rivals MK Dons to the cleaners in their last home game and will hope for a repeat against the Millers.

Time for two up top?

Redfearn has said for some time that his ideal formation is 4-4-2, yet has not felt able to start with that on too many occasions. He came under heavy criticism from fans last week for only playing one up front, though the Millers hardly improved after the break when they did play two in attack. However, he could be tempted to go with that formation from the off against Bolton, with Luciano Becchio now having enough fitness in his legs to potentially start. However, with Redfearn also keen to get Andrew Shinnie into his side, he may stick with just Danny Ward in attack, leaving Becchio as an option off the bench.

Pick your starting XI

So, with those posers for Redfearn in mind, what side would you pick at the Macron Stadium?

Stats

Rotherham’s last five games: LWLDL

Bolton’s last five games: LWWLD

Head-to-head record against Bolton: P37 W17 D13 L7

Last time at Bolton: Bolton 3 Rotherham 2 (16 September 2014)

Predict the score

Who will come out on top at the Macron?

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Rotherham v Charlton: Match preview

Rotherham welcome Charlton to the AESSEAL New York Stadium on Saturday for a gargantuan clash at the bottom of the Sky Bet Championship.

The Millers could move four points above the relegation zone with victory while also moving seven above the Addicks.

Here is an in-depth preview of the game.

Team news

Rotherham will add new signings Andrew Shinnie and Chris Dawson to their squad.

Shinnie is the more likely to start, though Neil Redfearn has a selection headache as to who he drops after an impressive performance at Cardiff last week.

Aimen Belaid is rated at 50/50 as he struggles with a groin injury and he will undergo a fitness test on Friday. Farrend Rawson is on standby to replace the Tunisian.

Lee Frecklington has suffered a set-back in his recovery from a hamstring injury, the same problem which looks like ruling Matt Derbyshire out.

Leon Best and Stephen Kelly are long-term injury absentees.

What the manager says

Millers boss Neil Redfearn has played down the importance of Charlton's visit, but admits it is a great chance for his side.

"Whatever happens we have still got to do well for the rest of the season," he said. "If we win Saturday and lose the rest of the games we’ll go down and if we lose Saturday and win the rest of the games we’ll go up. That’s football. 

"But it gives us a realistic opportunity to put a distance between us and those underneath us. It comes on a day when there is not many games in the league and it gives us chance to pull away a little bit. It’s about chipping away."

On Charlton's recent struggles, he added: "They are a good side. I look at the change from when they were to when (Jose) Riga has come in, they are not mugs. 

"They have got some good players so it is going to be a tough game. But we are playing well at home and it’s a tough place to come when we are playing well. It has to be the same mentality and the same approach."

The opposition

Charlton will hope that the battling 1-1 draw with Blackburn last week represents the start of a resurgence under Jose Riga.

Prior to the Rovers clash, the Addicks lost Championship games at Huddersfield and Hull to an aggregate of 11-0 while also went out of the FA Cup to League One strugglers Colchester.

They are without a win in any competition in 12 games, stretching back to November 21 and cannot afford to lose against the Millers.

Portuguese centre-half Jorge Teixeira made his debut in the 1-1 draw with Blackburn last weekend, so could retain his place in the defence.

Forward Ademola Lookman is training again following his recent hamstring problems, but is not expected to be rushed back.

Belgian defender Patrick Bauer faces around a month out following surgery on a groin injury. Midfielders Alou Diarra (foot) and Ahmed Kashi (Achilles) both also continue their rehabilitation.

Things to look out for

Rising to the challenge

Rotherham's home form has been impressive in recent weeks, with a lop-sided 3-0 defeat to QPR last time out the only blip. So the Millers need to continue in that vein against a side with a horrid case of travel sickness and if they do match the level found against Hull, Bolton and Brighton then they should be celebrating three points. Things are never that easy when Rotherham are involved, though, and historically games like these, when victory is expected, usually ends in defeat. However, they can take strength out of delivering the goods against Bolton when they the favourites and they know if they can win it would leave Charlton needing to win three more games than the Millers to overhaul them.

Who plays where?

Neil Redfearn's recruitment this month has been much-needed but also, on paper at least, perfectly judged. They have strengthened down the core of the side and now they have options in all areas, particularly midfield. And it leaves Redfearn with a selection headache. Does he play 4-4-2, which he would like to at home? With Derbyshire a doubt and Becchio not quite ready for a start, it would not be a surprise to see him go with just Danny Ward in attack, but who plays the 10 role? Grant Ward excelled at Cardiff last week but Andrew Shinnie is now available. It finally makes a nice change to have a plethora of choices instead of none.

Pick your starting XI

Redfearn will have a selection headache, but who would you pick?

Stats

Rotherham's last five games: LLWLD

Charlton's last five games: DLLLD

Head-to-head record against Charlton: P33 W14 D9 L10

Last time against the Addicks: 1-1, September 2015

Predict the score

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Cardiff v Rotherham: Match preview

Rotherham's battle with Sky Bet Championship safety continues as they travel to Cardiff on Saturday.

The trip to south Wales has the Millers aiming to end a five-game losing streak on the road.

Here's an in-depth preview of the game at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Team news

Rotherham will add new signing Luciano Becchio to the squad, but the striker will be on the bench.

Fellow new signing Chris Burke will also travel with the squad and looks set to make his debut on the right of midfield, with Grant Ward moving to a more central role.

Skipper Lee Frecklington is back in training after a hamstring injury but won't feature, though Farrend Rawson is fit again after a hamstring problem of his own.

Lewis Buxton is also added to the squad after his ending his contract dispute.

What the manager says

On the Millers' poor away form

"We have got to get the level of performance right. We have been playing a lot better and I know that if we get the level of performance right the chances are we will start picking up the odd result. We have got to offer a real threat away from home."

On Cardiff

"They are a good side. They are always round about, they will be hoping to sneak into the play-offs this year. Russell Slade is an experienced manager who knows this division well. They will be a tough nut to crack. They have basically got Premier League players."

The opposition

Cardiff are under a Football League transfer embargo, but they have still added to their squad this week with the loan signing of Lex Immers.

The 29-year-old forward has joined from Feyenoord until the end of the season and is set to make his debut against the Millers.

Defender Sean Morrison remains sidelined with a knee injury, while striker Idriss Saadi is still out after tearing his hamstring on debut in November.

The Bluebirds are five points adrift of the play-offs and won their last outing 3-1 at Wolves. That win alleviated the pressure on boss Russell Slade, who was reported to be facing the sack after a disappointing FA Cup exit to Shrewsbury.

Things to look out for

Ending away-day blues

Rotherham have a severe case of travel sickness, having lost eight of their last nine matches on the road. If the Millers are going to stay up this season they have to be able to pick up some results away from home and boss Redfearn knows it. He could be tempted to switch to a 4-4-2 against the Bluebirds, something the Millers have not deployed on the road since their win at Leeds in November.

Alex Revell reunion

The Millers are likely to come face-to-face with Alex Revell on Saturday, with rumours linking him to a return to South Yorkshire this month. The arrival of Immers from Feyenoord could tempt the Bluebirds to let him out, but it is likely that Revell will be involved in the matchday squad on Saturday. If he gets on, he could be performing an audition.

Pick your starting XI

Who gets the shirt down in Wales? Have a go at choosing the side you think should start.

Stats

Cardiff’s last five games: DWLLW

Rotherham’s last five games: LLLWL

Head to head record against Cardiff: P47 W23 D12 L12

Last visit to Cardiff: 0-0, Dec 6 2014

Predict

Who's going to win and what will the score be?

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Rotherham v Brighton: Five things to look out for

Sky Bet Championship safety returns to the top of Rotherham's agenda when Brighton travel to New York on Tuesday.

The Millers were knocked out of the FA Cup at Leeds on Saturday and they return to a battle which sees them out of the Championship bottom three on goal difference.

Here are five things to look out for in the game.

Can Rotherham stop the team-talk changers?

Rotherham have been undermined by an inability to close out first halves this season as their FA Cup defeat at Leeds on Saturday was the eighth time they have conceded between the minutes 40-45. All of them have proved pivotal game-changers and left Neil Redfearn (and Steve Evans before him) ripping up his half-time team-talks. The Millers have to become better at game management and be able to see out periods when they are under the cosh if there is an end in sight.

What sort of condition will the Millers be in

The last thing the Millers could do with is a midweek fixture with their squad the way it is at the minute. Redfearn has depleted options at his disposal given injuries, loan recalls, and ineligibilities. The manager's game management at Elland Road suggested there was more than one eye on this clash, but even then they did not come through unscathed. Shay Facey was taken off at half-time feeling a tight hamstring while Danny Ward is now a doubt after aggravating a hip problem. 

Continuing Brighton's goalscoring drought

Whisper it, but this could be a good time to play Brighton. For probably one of the first times this season Rotherham are coming up against a side who are not in their prime or on a roll. The early-season pacesetters, who were not beaten in the league until December, are having a decided wobble and are winless in eight games. They have not scored in five and they are making a second trip to Yorkshire in the space of three days. Of course, the ability to fly home from Hull on Saturday is wholly different from travelling by coach, but it will still be a lengthy journey and a night in a hotel. With the Seagulls struggling in front of goal and their tendency for a stalemate on the road - their nine is a divisional high - this could be the evening where Rotherham finally manage a draw!

Home comforts

However, recent form at New York Stadium suggests the Millers should be targeting three points. Three wins from their last four games on home soil has been encouraging and the performances against Hull and Bolton were enough to haul themselves out of the bottom three. The manner of those displays also give hope that they have got enough in front of their own fans to be able to sustain their fight against the drop. Redfearn's men have had three games on the road and they will be looking forward to some home comforts.

Tuesday night blues

The fact they are playing on a Tuesday might just unsettle them, though. It was too long ago that the Millers were pretty much invincible in midweek evening matches, losing just a couple of the back-to-back promotion seasons. However, their midweek form has been just another addition to the long list of struggles in the Championship. Since their return to the second tier 18 months ago, Rotherham have won just three games on a Tuesday night, drawn four, but lost 10. The positives there are that all three wins have been at New York while two Tuesday nights under the lights this season have ended in draws.

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Leeds v Rotherham: Four things to look out for

Rotherham switch their attention to the FA Cup this weekend as they head to Leeds for another reunion with former boss Steve Evans.

Coming just a few weeks after their 1-0 win at Elland Road in the Championship there is less to get excited about this time around, though there are still a few sub-plots bubbling away.

Here are four things to look out for in the game.

Are Steve Evans and Neil Redfearn friends?

It was only before the game in November where Evans said that Redfearn will arrive at Elland Road his friend and leave his friend, whatever happened during the 90 minutes. But things can change quickly in football and whether things are as rosy between the two this time remains to be seen after Evans took exception to comments from Redfearn about the state of Rotherham's squad. He responded with a barbed taunt, suggesting his successor was one game from the sack while Redfearn kept his counsel. Redfearn is likely to get another warm reception from the terraces, but will it be a little more frosty from the dugout he used to occupy?

What circus awaits this time?

The aftermath to the Millers' win in November was dominated by the story of Redfearn being denied a car parking pass by his former employers. He has confirmed that there will be no similar issues this time around, but that does not mean there might not be any more high jinx from Leeds owner Massimo Cellino. There is hardly a game at Elland Road that goes by without some sort of controversy as 'Car Park gate' was followed by a fans' protest at a pie tax before Cellino tried to ban Sky Sports from entering the ground for their last game against Derby. Nothing can be ruled out with Cellino and with plenty of bad blood between him and Redfearn what on earth is next?

Restoring the magic of the FA Cup

It's official, Rotherham are rubbish in the FA Cup. With regular losses to lower-ranked teams over the last decade, the Millers have not created any magic for a very long time. They travel to West Yorkshire trying to reach the fourth round for the first time since 2002, where they beat Southampton 2-1 at Millmoor. Even under Evans, a man who built his name on two cup runs at Crawley, the Millers never got past the third round. It's ironic that he could be the man to extend that run on Saturday. But it's about time the Millers embarked on a decent run, though no one will want it at the expense of the league form.

Down to the bare bones

Whether that drought in the cup ends at Elland Road will depend largely on the side that both teams, but specifically Rotherham, put out. The Millers don't have too many options at their disposal. Leon Best, Stephen Kelly, Farrend Rawson, Lee Frecklington and Harry Toffolo are out injured. Richard Wood is cup-tied while Tony Andreu has returned to Norwich and Lewis Buxton is unable to be selected due to a contract dispute. That leaves Rotherham short and the fact that they have recalled youngster Mason Warren from a loan spell at Sheffield FC is telling. Things are so bad that even Greg Halford, Emmanuel Ledesma and Jordan Bowery might get a game! 

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Preston v Rotherham: Four things to look out for

Rotherham begin 2016 with a trip to Preston as they aim to try and stay out of the Sky Bet Championship relegation zone.

They ended 2015 poorly at Fulham and have injury concerns for the visit to Deepdale but they have to try and take some points from those teams around them.

Here is four things to look out for in the game.

Who is going to play right-back?

With Frazer Richardson ruled out due to a concussion suffered at Fulham and Lewis Buxton still stuck in a contract dispute, the Millers are down to Stephen Kelly as their only recognised right-back. Unfortunately there is still a huge question mark hanging over the Irishman's fitness and he looks unlikely to play. Boss Neil Redfearn is usually a straight shooter, but when he says one of his players is a doubt, it usually means he won't play, especially in Kelly's case as they are so keen to protect the injury from becoming long time. So that leaves them short of options. Kirk Broadfoot might have to provide cover there, but Redfearn would be loathe to move him out a central position, so Richard Wood might be another option. Paul Green came on and settled in at right-back at Craven Cottage on Tuesday, but it would be a risk to play him there for 90 minutes. If anything, this problem highlights the need for reinforcements this month.

Bouncing back

All too often this season the Millers have gone on losing runs that have stretched to three or four games, but they cannot allow that to happen again. Having being beaten at Fulham they have to try and stop the rot and get the points tally ticking over again. After clawing themselves out of the relegation zone at the back end of last year, they need to make their lives as easy as possible for themselves by staying out! As identified in our New Year resolutions piece, that can be done by developing an ability to draw more games when they are unable to win them. This trip over the Pennines might be one such game where they have to do that.

Breaking Preston's mean defence

We have to be honest - the stats don't look too good here. The nine goals Preston have conceded on home soil is the lowest in the division and their measly defence has seen them beat the likes of Hull and draw with Middlesbrough. On top of that, the Millers have hardly found their mojo on the road and have scored just two goals in their last six away games. Not the recipe for a high-scoring thriller, then! Somehow, Redfearn's men have to discover a way to become more threatening on the road and Danny Ward's emergence as a lone striker could still be the key to that.

Back the draw?

The caveat to Preston's stingy defence and Rotherham's misfiring attack is that Simon Grayson's men don't exactly rack up the goals either. In fact, the nine goals they have scored on home soil is also the worst in the division, with no team scoring less in front of their own fans. They have never scored more than one in a game and have drawn a blank three times. All of this is pointing to the smart money being on the game ending in a draw. Preston have been held six times at home this season, with three of them goalless bore draws. Much will depend on Rotherham's ability to keep a clean sheet of course, which is by no means a given, but odds of 8/1 on a 0-0 draw look quite tempting.

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Fulham v Rotherham: Four things to look out for

Rotherham travel to Fulham on Wednesday as they look to continue the momentum which has seen them move out of the relegation zone.

It’s a game that has suddenly become entirely winnable following impressive displays in wins over Hull and Bolton.

Here’s four things to look out for in the game.

Three and not so easy

Rotherham made it back-to-back wins for the third time this season when seeing off Bolton on Boxing Day but they have yet to further their winning sequence to three. In fact, that is an achievement they have not yet managed since their return to the second tier as they never won more than one in a row last season. You have to go back to 2003-04 to find their last three-game winning run when they beat Walsall, Coventry and Wimbledon. How Neil Redfearn would love his side to end that wait at Craven Cottage and build on what has been a very good Christmas so far.

Entering the new year on a high

We are now just days away from the month which has been highlighted as the most important in Rotherham’s season – January. That assertion, which was already well known, was reiterated by Redfearn after the horror show at Huddersfield and when he said the Millers were looking in danger of getting cut adrift. Now, by the time January comes, whatever happens at Craven Cottage Redfearn’s side are guaranteed to out of the relegation zone when Big Ben strikes 12 on Friday and who would have thought that when the post-mortem of Huddersfield was taking place? How good would the New Year celebrations be if the Millers can end 2015 four – or even two – points clear of the drop zone?

Translating performances on the road

Rotherham’s last two performances, which has breathed fresh life into their season, both came at New York Stadium and the challenge now is to pack them up and take them on the road, starting at Fulham. Danny Ward’s emergence as a credible lone striker should certainly help their cause and the way that he has been joined in attack by Grant Ward, Joe Newell and others, allowing them to be dangerous on the break in the last two games is suited to playing away from home. Fulham will be expected to be the attacking force and be on the front foot and, providing they defend well, that plays right into Rotherham’s hands. They five-man midfield has helped solidity that was missing at Huddersfield and now there is a goal threat, Redfearn must surely fancy getting something out of the game.

The new manager effect

The Millers take on a side who are woefully out of form and having not won in eight games confidence should be low. But the appointment of former Watford manager Slavisa Jokanovic will provide them with a timely boost and it could present problems for the Millers. The Fulham players could all now have an extra spring in their step as they try and impress their new manager, who is unlikely to be in control of the side. On top of that, the chairman came out with a rallying call on Monday which will only serve to fire the supporters and the side up.

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Rotherham v Bolton: 5 things to look out for

Rotherham hope to build on their impressive win over Hull on Boxing Day when rock-bottom Bolton visit New York.

The game represents a chance to not only move out of the bottom three but inflict further damage on their visitors at the foot of the table.

Here's five things to look out for in the game.

Making the Hull win count

The superb success over Steve Bruce's men surprised many and, despite being well deserved, it was a definite bonus for the Millers in that it was a game they were not expected to get anything out of. Those vital three points will count for nothing if they cannot follow it up against Bolton – a side they will be expected to beat. Although the Millers have positive experiences of building on wins this season, as landmark successes against Cardiff and Leeds were followed up, if history is anything to go by this is not going to be a canter. It would be entirely Rotherham United-like to win last week and then follow it up on Boxing Day against the bottom of the league in front of a full house with a limp performance. Stuff like that is their trademark. Boss Neil Redfearn will want a rebranding to ensure that his side register something against Bolton.

Are Bolton as bad as their form suggests?

Despite Bolton's beleaguered position – both on and off the field – it would be foolish to think they are going to roll over and let Rotherham win. They are currently five points adrift of safety, but they have lost less games than the Millers this season and have drawn more than anyone else in the division. This isn't going to be easy. Both Lennon – when not dealing with allegations about his private life in the media – and his assistant Steve Walford have been encouraged by recent performances and believe draws against Charlton and Fulham have given them confidence to go and get wins. They will be targeting this game just as much as the Millers are.

Luke Hyam's replacement

Ipswich's recall of Luke Hyam means that Redfearn will be forced into at least one change on Saturday. If the boss wants a like-for-like replacement then he has Tom Thorpe and Paul Green who can play a sitting role alongside Richie Smallwood, but given neither men have been since since the first half of the Ipswich game, then he might have reservations about selecting them. He may choose to change formation and play someone up with Danny Ward, particularly if Leon Best is fit, or he could play Tony Andreu in the hole behind Ward. What would you do? Pick your starting XI here and share on Facebook or Twitter.

Flash in the pan for Danny Ward

One of the best things about the win over Hull was the emergence of Danny Ward. He was outstanding in the lone striking role as he caused the Tigers no end of problems with his presence, pace and mobility. The former Huddersfield man had shown glimpses of his quality at the back end of last season but has struggled to do it consistently amid a string of injuries. But now is the time for Ward to show why he is rated so highly by his manager and team-mates on a regular basis, starting against Bolton. The 25-year-old has to put in the same manner of performance as against Hull, terrorising the visitors' back four with his energy and athleticism. If he can do that and the goals start to follow, the Millers could have a real talent on their hands.

Boxing Day cheer

Rotherham have had it tough in the second tier during their last two stints there, but one thing they have always done well at is picking up results on Boxing Day. In four games during the early 2000s and current spell, the Millers are yet to be beaten on the day after Christmas having won three and drawn one. After the 01/02 game against Burnley was victim of the weather, Ronnie Moore's side won games against Preston (02/03), Wigan (03/04) and Leicester (04/05). Then last year, they maintained their unbeaten run in unlikely fashion as they scored two goals in the final two minutes to come from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Huddersfield. The Millers will be hoping they can add to that on Saturday, to end their Christmas celebrations in style.

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Rotherham v Hull: 5 things to look out for

Rotherham return to action on Saturday, trying to put the disappointment of Tuesday night's defeat at Huddersfield behind them.

Things don't get much easier with the visit of Hull, though, and whatever happens, Neil Redfearn's men will spend Christmas in the bottom three.

Here's five things to look out for in the game.

Which way will the Millers' response go?

Redfearn was not exactly shy and retiring in his verdict of his players in the loss at Huddersfield, with a very public "condemnation of them as professional footballers". Some of what was said needed to be said, but doing so in the manner he did was a risky strategy. He admitted he did it in part to spark a response from his players ahead of the Hull game, so it will be fascinating to see how it will play out. Will those comments inspire the players to prove Redfearn wrong and go out and show they can compete at this level or will it go the other way with the players sulking and taking umbrage. Let's hope it's the former.

If Leon Best plays up front, who plays with him?

Redfearn is hopeful that he will finally be able to get Leon Best in the side after a four-game absence and if his performance in his only 73 minutes in a Millers shirt at Leeds is anything to go by then his return can only improve things. But who plays with him? After the heights of Bristol City, Jonson Clarke-Harris has had another poor run of games, though performed well with Best against Leeds. Redfearn is a known fan of Danny Ward, though the former Huddersfield man has yet to produce any consistency in a Millers shirt. Matt Derbyshire could be an option, but his form is arguably worse than the first half of last season. It's likely to be Clarke-Harris, but a definite improvement is required. 

Can the Millers take the lead?

A major symptom of Rotherham's struggles this season has been their inability to take the lead in games and they regularly find themselves behind and chasing things - not good when the strikeforce is as blunt as theirs. They have taken the lead six times this season and four of those have resulted in wins, with a draw at Charlton and a defeat Nottingham Forest. They have only taken the lead twice under Redfearn and both have been converted into wins and the boss has identified this as a real area to target. If, somehow, they can get their noses in front against Hull and have something to protect and defend, then the Millers might just put something on the board. 

Does Stephen Kelly play right-back or centre-back?

As important as Best's return may be, the return to fitness of Stephen Kelly is just as vital to the Millers' chances. The Irishman has only managed 61 minutes more than Best, but he also showed what a difference he can make to the Millers, with his pace and reading of the game vital in the wins at Leeds and in the first half against Bristol City. The temptation will be to put him straight back at centre-half alongside Kirk Broadfoot as they looked to be forming a good partnership together, but with Farrend Rawson also back fit, could Redfearn be tempted to resurrect the Broadfoot-Rawson partnership which did well last season? That would allow Kelly to switch to right-back in place of Lewis Buxton who has been struggling in recent games. 

Can they provide some festive cheer?

Even if the Millers can beat Hull – a side packed full of international quality and tipped for promotion – they are resigned to spending Christmas in the bottom three and for some that is even more depressing than a burnt turkey and Father Christmas not turning up. And the Millers fans deserve some festive cheer and to be sent home with a warm feeling inside. Regardless of Redfearn's words, the least the fans can expect - and deserve - is a response from the grim performance in West Yorkshire. It may very well be that Hull are too good for the Millers and everyone can accept that – as long as the hosts are seen to be fighting and scrapping for everything throughout the 90 minutes.

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Blackburn v Rotherham: 4 things to look out for

Rotherham get the early chance to move out of the bottom three when they head to Blackburn on Friday night.

The Millers will be keen to register at least a point after they were beaten by Wolves last time out.

Here's four things to look out for in the game.

4-5-1, with a start for Luke Hyam

With Danny Ward injured, Leon Best suspended and boss Neil Redfearn not seeming to take too big a liking to Matt Derbyshire, the Millers are highly likely to set up with just one in attack at Ewood Park, with the likes of Joe Newell, Lee Frecklington and Grand Ward pushing on to support Jonson Clarke-Harris. Playing 4-5-1 would allow the Millers to swamp the midfield, something they did against Wolves, and also give themselves a chance to start Luke Hyam. The Ipswich loanee has impressed in his two substitute appearances, especially against Wolves, and Redfearn has hinted that his time for more action is coming. As well, playing five in midfield should make them more solid and Redfearn will hope that they can neuter a strong and resurgent Blackburn side, who are benefitting from the recent appointment of Paul Lambert.

Which Jonson Clarke-Harris will turn up

Having seen both ends of the JCH spectrum in the last two games - the powerhouse against Bristol City and the anonymity against Wolves - it's difficult to know which one we will see at Ewood Park. Likely to be playing up front on his own is perhaps not conducive to seeing the best of him, especially against seasoned and experienced Championship defenders, but Clarke-Harris has to offer something for the Millers. Hopefully a week on the training ground working with Redfearn and Best can help inspire him as the Millers will be up against it if he performs like he did in a similar role at Derby and Middlesbrough.

That Friday feeling

When you're down at the bottom end of a division it's no surprise that there are a lot of records and stats that go against you and Rotherham certainly have their fair share of them. And here's another one to add to their list - their Friday night record. Indeed, weekends have been ruined before they have even started on both occasions that the Millers have played on a Friday this season, with defeats to Burnley and Sheffield Wednesday, and they have only won one of their last six on that day - a 2-1 success over Leeds last season. Their record away from home is even worse and you have to go back to the days of Darren Pattinson's caretaker spell in 2012 to find the last victory. Hopefully the Millers can end the hoodoo this time and bring some early seasonal cheer.

How to stop Jordan Rhodes

Despite keeping clean sheets in two of their last three games, the Rotherham defence is still the leakiest in the division, so hotshot Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes must be licking his lips at the prospect of coming up against Danny Collins, Kirk Broadfoot et al. The 25-year-old is a consistent scorer at this level and already has nine goals in 17 appearances this season, so will be the main threat on Friday. Without Stephen Kelly's pace at the back, the Millers could struggle to keep tabs on his impressive runs down the channels while they will not be able to afford for any loose balls in the area. The only positive the Millers can take is that he has scored just twice in the last nine games, but then again that probably means he is due one. 

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Rotherham v Bristol City: Five things to look out for

After the sweet - and much-needed - win at Leeds last week, Rotherham return to home soil against Bristol City.

And there is pressure and expectation on their shoulders as it marks the start of a easier run of fixtures which the Millers need to pick up points from.

Here are five things to look out for in the game.

After the Lord's Mayor Show

The mood around the club has lifted immeasurably in the wake of last week's sweet success at Leeds and with an inviting run of fixtures coming up and a squad overhaul, there is some optimism around. However, the Millers have to make sure they are void of any complacency that might creep in. On paper, it's a game they will fancy getting something out of, but there's no way they will have enough to win unless they show all of the grit, determination and effort that was showcased at Elland Road. Neil Redfearn has to ensure that his men are equally as up for it as they were last week.

Seeking home comforts

After the harrowing display against Ipswich last time out, the Millers supporters could be forgiven for heading to New York with some trepidation. The truth is, if Rotherham are going to stay up this season then they have to get their home form sorted and quickly. Just one win and two draws from eight games is no way conducive to a good season, nor is taking just one point from games against MK Dons, Preston and Fulham. The Millers' survival last season was built on their home form and they have to start picking the points up in a similar manner to how they did in the first part of 2015. Saturday – a game against a side only four points above them in the table – is a good place to start.

Is Kieran Agard a Championship player?

After choosing Bristol City over Leeds last summer, Kieran Agard's ambition was questioned in some sections when he left the Millers to drop down a level. However, he soon found himself in the Championship anyway as the Robins ran away with League One last season and we could get a glimpse into what the Millers are missing on Saturday. He has recently come back from injury, but his burning pace is likely to cause the hosts trouble and if 2013-14 told us anything, it's that he knows how to get into the right areas in the penalty box. Despite the manner of his Millers exit - which came after he refused to sign a new contract - he is likely to be afforded a warm reception by the home crowd as they get another flashback to a golden year.

Who's the Best man to replace Leon?

The fact that Leon Best is going to be missed despite only playing 73 minutes tells you about the impact he had on his debut at Leeds and the troubles the Millers had before his arrival. So, it's back to the the previous pool of Matt Derbyshire, Danny Ward and Jonson Clarke-Harris for the Robins clash and Redfearn has a choice to make. Despite a drought stretching back to September, Clarke-Harris is likely to get a shirt as he was much-improved at Leeds so there's a decision to be made as to who partners him in attack. Derbyshire has been carrying an injury and was lacklustre against Ipswich, while Ward has failed to find his level in a stop-start season. Whoever Redfearn goes with let's hope they were studying Best's performance at Leeds last week as it has to be better than it was against Ipswich.

Goals Galore

Prior to the Millers keeping a clean sheet at Leeds last week, it has hardly been the bravest of calls to suggest their games will have goals in them. They have the leakiest defence in the division and have been breached on four or more times on three occasions. But, for all their shortcomings in attack, they usually manage to find the net and 71 per cent of their games have ended with both teams scoring, and that goes as high as 88 per cent at New York. Bristol City have the second leakiest defence, shipping 27 (six less than Rotherham), but they generally have no problem scoring at the other end, bagging 18. They operate at 59% per cent on the both teams to score ratio. The Millers would love nothing more than to record a second successive clean sheet, but all the form points to goals.

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Rotherham v Ipswich: Four things to look out for

The games keep coming thick and fast for Rotherham as they come up against Ipswich at New York Stadium.

It's four defeats out of five four Neil Redfearn at the Millers helm and his side are now five points adrift of safety, with the visit of Mick McCarthy's men taking on extra significance.

Here are five things to look out for in the game.

Monkey off the back

Neil Redfearn has not had much go in his favour since coming to the Millers, mainly due to a gruelling run of fixtures against top sides, but he is still the first manager since Tommy Johnston in 1958 not to win any of his first five games in charge. Although most people are understanding of Redfearn's plight, eventually he will have to put some wins on the board if he is going to have full faith from the supporters. The game against the Ipswich looks - on paper - to be his best chance of breaking that duck. The league table suggests anything other than a win is unacceptable.

Getting the home form right

One thing that Redfearn has to address is the home form. The Millers picked up most of their points on home soil last season and their form there was imperative in helping them secure their Championship safety. But so far this season they have struggled on their own patch, picking just five points up from their first seven games and losing four of them. Redfearn has highlighted that the support at New York Stadium can be very partisan and he will hope that he can harnass the second-half performance against Reading and create a fortress where it provides a regular supply of points.

Time to take Jonson Clarke-Harris out of firing line

Providing Matt Derbyshire is fit and available - or a new signing arrives - Redfearn might reckon it's time to pull Jonson Clarke-Harris out of the side. Although he has been the Millers' most promising player in the opening third of the season, he has perhaps run out of steam in the last few weeks. He has stopped scoring, the powerful runs have also ceased and his inability to hold the ball up is causing the side major issues at the other end. Redfearn has hinted that he's only stayed in the side because there is no one else to pick, but this might be the right time for a rest.

When Saturday comes

Remember what a Saturday home game feels like? Nope? Well it's no surprise as it is eight weeks since the Millers last took the field at 3pm on a Saturday on home soil after a run of Friday night televised matches and a midweek match. In fact, out of their seven home games this season, only three have been on Saturdays. Everyone will be hoping for a similar result to their last weekend outing at New York - a 2-1 win over Cardiff on September 12. The club has changed a lot since that game, but there is nothing better than the familiarity of going to football on a Saturday afternoon.

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