Paul Warne talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United manager Paul Warne has placed on record his thanks to former loanee Kieffer Moore, before wishing him well following his move to Championship side Barnsley.
Moore was brought to the AESSEAL New York Stadium by Warne during the close season, enjoying great success after netting 13 times in 22 league appearances for the club.
The Millers were one of several teams chasing Moore’s permanent signature after he was recalled by parent club Ipswich Town at the start of this month, but Warne understands the decision made by the 25-year-old after the opportunity to play in The Championship was presented to him.
“Kieffer had a great time here, he really enjoyed playing for Rotherham United,” Warne told www.themillers.co.uk
“He came to a side where he had to compete with others for a place, but he showed a great desire and attitude to force himself into the side initially, and he really kicked on to make the forward position his own.
“We were obviously very keen to turn his loan into a permanent transfer, and our offer represented how serious we were about bringing him back here. If he was going to move to a League One club, then I know that he would have come here.
“I also know how football works, and it hasn’t changed since I was a player. Every player wants to play at the highest possible level that they can, and Kieffer is no different. As soon as a Championship side came in, we knew that the offer would be impossible for Kieffer to turn down.”
Warne ended by again hailing the attitude of Moore, who was a popular figure on and off the field:
“He always gave his all when he put on a Rotherham shirt,” Warne continued.
“I’ve spoken to him nearly every day over the last week or so, and I know he will be forever grateful for the opportunity we gave him here. He is a terrific lad, his attitude on and off the field was first class.
“We wish him well for the future, and every success with his move.
“Life goes on. We have shown when Kieffer was out suspended that we remain a very effective side without him, and progress continues behind the scenes to add new faces to what is already a very competitive squad.”