Darnelle Bailey-King ready for professional challenge...
Rotherham United scholar Darnelle Bailey-King claimed to be ‘overwhelmed’ after being handed his first professional contract by the club.
The winger has penned a two-year professional deal and joins fellow second year scholar Kuda Muskwe in committing his future to the Millers. Both were in the recent matchday squad for the FA Cup fixture against Leeds United at Elland Road.
Darnelle also joined Kuda pitch side during half-time at the recent home game with Hull City where they were officially unveiled to the crowd and Chairman Tony Stewart.
“I’m delighted and overwhelmed by it all,” Darnelle said.
“I’m going to continue working as hard as I did to earn this now.
“It’s been good for me being around the first team players and seeing the skill that it requires to be at that level. Since I’ve been involved the lads in the first team have helped me and spoken to me and guiding me along the path to get to where I am now.”
First team manager Neil Redfearn has spoken of his desire to bring through players from the club’s Academy structure, and Darnelle admitted that the Millers boss has had a big impact on his recent progress.
“The manager has told me to express myself which is something that’s great to hear and I’m looking forward to showing him what I’m capable of,” he added.
“Everything he’s said has made me feel comfortable and I’m looking forward to the challenge now.”