Assistant manager Paul Raynor admits the clash with Bundesliga side FSV Mainz 05 will be the toughest pre-season test yet.
A mainstay in the German top flight, Mainz will be the Millers’ final pre-season opposition before the Championship curtain raiser against MK Dons at AESSEAL New York Stadium on August 8th.
The Millers have enjoyed a productive pre-season campaign so far, including an unbeaten tour of Scotland, as they prepare for their second consecutive season in the second tier.
The visit of Mainz tomorrow (3pm) will see AESSEAL New York Stadium host foreign opposition for the first time, and Raynor believes that it will be a stern test ahead of the new campaign.
“It is really exciting,” said Raynor.
“I’m sure Rotherham have played teams from overseas before, but I don’t think the club will have played too many from the top half of the Bundesliga. It will be a real test for us, just like it was on Wednesday, when we put in a really good performance against a team with a combined value that would run into the tens of millions.”
As the new season edges closer, Raynor confirms that it isn’t too late for any players to stake a claim for place in the starting 11.
“We have seen some good combinations all over the pitch so far but it is about getting it right for August 8th.
“I’m sure we’ll see more players come to the fore and do well this weekend, but it is starting to take shape and we are feeling really positive.”
Tickets remain on sale for the game tomorrow.