Paul Warne talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United boss Paul Warne insists he will be reiterating his opinion to his players that Saturday’s opponents Rochdale are in a false position in Sky Bet League One.
The Millers take on Keith Hill’s side at AESSEAL New York Stadium this weekend and but Warne believes that Dale’s current 23rd position in the table is not reflective of their true abilities, having watched their win over Walsall in midweek.
“At Walsall the other night, I was really impressed with the way they played and in fairness, I was probably a bit too impressed, so we'll have to get that through to the lads and let them know what we'll have to do differently to try and beat this side,” he told www.themillers.co.uk.
“If you went and watched their game the other night and you didn't know the league table you would find it hard to believe that one is 10 places behind the other, or whatever the case maybe.”
Rochdale have reason to be in buoyant mood ahead of the trip to South Yorkshire following their midweek win, which came shortly after a very impressive first half showing at Wembley against Tottenham in the FA Cup, which ultimately ended in defeat.
The reverse fixture at Spotland earlier in the year was an equally closely contested one which saw the Millers prevail as 1-0 victors courtesy of Richard Wood’s winner, but Warne admits he thinks tomorrow’s opponents have improved since that meeting.
“It was a close encounter and I think they're a better team than they were then to be honest,” he continued.
“Everyone knows about the Tottenham games but I don't read too much into those because you can all have a game where everyone plays at their absolute max and has a performance to befit the club.
“I watched the Wigan game and they were excellent against them and they only managed to beat them 1-0.”
Keith Hill’s sides have always been renowned for their ability in possession with Warne adding he believes the current crop are no different and will adopt a ‘fearless’ approach to tomorrow’s match.
“They're all comfortable on the ball and the goalkeeper is as well,” he explained.
“He comes out and plays with his feet and they play with a back three. They all want the ball and they play without any fear at all, which is credit to the manager.
“Rochdale were really good away from home and they've got a lot of movement in the team and it wouldn't surprise me if they get themselves out of the situation that they are in.”