Neil Redfearn talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United manager Neil Redfearn has confirmed that striker Leon Best is edging closer to a return ahead of the Boxing Day clash with Bolton Wanderers.
The former Blackburn hot-shot has been battling a groin problem as he looks to regain his fitness in time to put him in the frame for a potential home bow against Neil Lennon’s Trotters.
Boss Redfearn confirmed that Best is close to a return but admitted that the Republic of Ireland international will face a battle to force his way into the side.
“Leon is not far away now,” Redfearn told Millers Player HD.
“Leon’s problem now is that he has to get into a side that is playing well. The lads have done well so he has to get himself in, and any manager wants competition for places.
“What he will do is come back into a side that is upbeat, he’s an experienced guy and he is another who can lead the line and be a focal point for us. It is important we get him back out there and get him fit.”
Following Luke Hyam’s return to Ipswich Town, Redfearn will once again be forced into changing a winning side, as the Millers look to follow up on their impressive 2-0 victory over Hull City last weekend.
“I rate Luke really highly,” Redfearn said. “He played a big part in that three man midfield; he was tigerish in the tackle and was positive with his passing and his positional sense.
“We will miss Luke but the bottom line is we knew there was a chance that Mick (McCarthy) would withdraw him at some point, that’s football. It gives someone else an opportunity now, players are chomping at the bit to go and play.
“By and large the team has settled down now from where it was. There are a lot of players in similar positions now and we want to try and keep that, because that familiarity breeds confidence among the players.”