Paul Warne's service has been recognised by the club...
Rotherham United have awarded former striker, and current coach Paul Warne a testimonial match, to be held at the end of the season.A fans favourite throughout his two spells at the club, Warney was part of the side that gained back-to-back promotions from League Two to the Championship, and is now working behind the scenes as part of Steve Evans’ coaching staff.
Paul joined the Millers in 1999 from Wigan Athletic, and became an integral part of the double promotion winning team. When he returned in 2009 under Mark Robins, Warney would take on a number of roles with the club, not only playing, but assisting in a number of roles off the field.
He made just three substitute appearances in his final season as a player before hanging up his boots in the summer to join the coaching staff on a permanent basis. As a result of his many years of service both on and off the field, Rotherham United were pleased to grant Paul a testimonial game.
“The board of directors have decided that Rotherham United should honour Paul Warne with a testimonial,” said Chairman Tony Stewart.
“Paul has given the club many years of service including player, coach and joint caretaker-manager. His ebullient nature has a positive effect on everyone at the club and the determination and passion he showed on the field as a player is reflected in his nature and work ethic off it as a coach.
“As a player Paul had a real affection for the fans and as a result of his attitude the feeling was mutual. In recent years we have seen many sides to his character and he continues to work tirelessly as a coach, whilst still taking the time to do work with Millers Player, the Community Sports Trust and the matchday programme. It’s with great pleasure that we will honour Paul’s time at the club and I look forward to seeing the finer details as they develop.”
Warne also received high praise from current manager Steve Evans, who appointed the striker as a full-time member of his coaching staff in the close season.
“I was well aware of Paul Warne the player prior to joining the Millers, and saw him play for Rotherham on many occasions especially at Millmoor,” said Evans.
“He is now a member of my backroom team. When I inherited Paul I had the option of keeping him or letting him go but once I worked with him I realised what an excellent professional he was it was an easy decision to keep him.
“He does an excellent job and continues to learn day-by-day and he will have a big part to play for this football club going forward.”
Numerous events will take place over the course of the next year to celebrate Warney’s testimonial, resulting in a match at New York Stadium, with a date and opposition yet to be confirmed.
There is a full interview with Paul Warne on Millers Player now.
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