David Ball talks to www.themillers.co.uk..
Despite a frustrating start to his Rotherham career, playmaker David Ball has pledged to make up for lost time after building a strong case to cement a regular berth in the Millers starting line-up.
The former Manchester City and Peterborough United striker hit the ground running in South Yorkshire by being one of the standout performers during the Millers’ pre-season campaign.
However, Ball soon found himself kicking his heels on the sidelines – with Millers chief Paul Warne opting to play in-form striker Kieffer Moore in a lone role spearheading the Rotherham attack – with a host of midfield runners employed to support the Ipswich loanee, in preference to an old-fashioned number 10 in the shape of Ball.
As a consequence, Ball has had to wait patiently for the opportunity to make his mark in Rotherham colours but a switch in formation has enabled the 28-year-old to demonstrate his prowess in playing between the lines, and giving the Millers’ attack an added dimension in the final third.
“Any footballer wants to play football and I’ve had to bide my time because the team went on a really good run,” Ball admitted.
“I’m a professional person and I’ll back the team. I was a little frustrated but I’ve kept my head down and waited for my opportunity. Hopefully with the goals in recent weeks I can get a little run going now.
“Only performances will keep me in the team. Hopefully the lads can get more familiar with how I play and vice versa. I just want a run in the team and I’ll do the business if I do.”
Ball’s recent success in front of goal has coincided with an upturn in Rotherham results, and the likeable front-man has now targeted more points over the upcoming festive period.
“I’m very confident we can rise the table,” Ball added.
“We all want to do well for the manager and the staff, who work ever so hard. It’s up to us as individuals and as a team and we have to continue to find ways of picking up points.”