Rotherham United’s first summer recruit Conor Washington believes the playing style and principles of his new team perfectly align with his own.
The forward – known for his energetic and committed displays at the top of the pitch - will officially become a Millers player on 1st July, when his contract with Charlton Athletic expires at the end of June.
Washington revealed that he’d spoke to Manager Paul Warne, as well as his coaching staff prior to his arrival, conversations which reinforced his desire to put pen-to-paper on a two year deal at AESSEAL New York Stadium.
“It’s great to be here, the manager and his coaching staff set their stall out very early in terms of their interest,” Washington told www.themillers.co.uk.
“This has always been a football club that me and my agent thought would suit me down to the ground in terms of style of play and what the fans expect from a player. I think it’s going to be a really good fit."
“I’d heard a lot about The Gaffer, as well as Richie and Hammy, too. It was nice to put a bit of personality and faces to the names and the Zoom meetings were everything I expected them to be and more.
“My vision aligned with theirs. I wanted to be back at this level, competing to play week in, week out and they think I can do that.
“I still think I have a lot to learn as well and I think they can help me to push on my game further, I’m excited to get going.
“The team spirit is fantastic, both games against Charlton last season were tight and hotly contested. I thought the intensity of the lads was brilliant and I thought it suited my style down to the ground, I just hope I can get into his team and add to that.”
The early days of Washington’s career will have no doubt endeared him to the Manager, having starting his journey in non-league with St Ives Town alongside working as a postman.
Since then, he has gone on to play at Sky Bet Championship level, as well as represent Northern Ireland, alongside Millers player, Shane Ferguson.
As well as speaking to the coaching staff, Conor was keen to do his research on the club by speaking to current and former players and staff, including Shane himself and insisted that everyone only had positive words to say.
“It shaped me as a person, I’ve been there and worked. I’ve seen the other side of life and I don’t think I take anything for granted in terms of my career.
“I think that reflects itself onto the pitch with the way I play and my attitude I play with. That conversation certainly came up with the manager and it is something he valued.
“I spoke to Shane when I was doing my research into the club. Everyone I spoke to, whether that be player, coach or person who has been here only had positive things to say about the club and obviously Shane is one of those people.”