RECENT signing Matty Palmer admits that he may have to bide his time for his opportunity, owing to the impressive form of Richie Towell and Will Vaulks in the Millers engine room, but Rotherham’s new recruit insists that he is raring to go when called upon by boss Paul Warne.
Warne made no secret of his desire to snap up the services of the former Burton Albion midfielder after he first came to his attention in spectacular fashion by firing home a thunderbolt, in Warne’s first game in charge at the Millers helm during a 2-1 defeat at the Pirelli Stadium. Subsequently, Warne’s monitored the 22-year-old’s progress at close quarters before finally getting his man in the January transfer window.
Just days after putting pen-to-paper in South Yorkshire, Palmer was thrusted into the AESSEAL New York Stadium spotlight by being handed his Millers debut during the 2-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon.
"I've come here to play,” Palmer insisted.
“The gaffer showed faith in me straight away when I arrived and hopefully I can get more chances to show what I can do.
"I did well. It's the first time I've played in two or three months. I know I can do a lot better and hopefully I'll get a chance in the coming weeks to show what kind of player I am.”
Speaking ahead of the hosting of Doncaster Rovers, Palmer stressed that he has adapted to life in South Yorkshire – with a minimum of fuss.
"All the boys and staff have been very good with me. It's been a good couple of weeks and obviously we've won four in a row since I've been here, so it's been great,” Palmer enthused.
During the Dons victory, Palmer showed glimpses of his immense promise – with his poise and ability to cut inside on his left-foot, standout features of his play.
Despite his promising debut, Warne decided to hand Towell, an immediate return to the side, at the expense of Palmer for the trip to Scunthorpe and the highly-rated midfielder has subsequently had to contend with cameo roles from the bench.
Palmer admits that fierce competition for places among the Millers squad will keep everyone on their toes, in the season defining run-in and with Rotherham handily placed for a League One play-off berth, at the very least, Palmer is targeting an immediate return to the Championship with his new side.
“It's a strong squad with good competition for places. It's more than good enough to get promoted so hopefully we can do it,” Palmer added.
"Obviously, I've been promoted with Burton twice. It's a similar feeling now to then and hopefully we can keep it up.
“I played 40 odd games in the Championship and did well. I want to play in the Championship and hopefully we can get there.”