Ball feeling positive as Millers look to climb

Ball (21) was signed on a three-year-deal from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer while 19-year-old Fry - currently on England U20 duty - joined on a season-long loan from Middlesbrough.

The duo have started the last two games in the heart of manager Alan Stubbs' defence and the early signs of a partnership forming are encouraging.

DOMINIC BALL IN ACTION AGAINST NEWCASTLE

"Being young, we're in similar situations," said Ball, assessing their partnership. "We understand each other, we communicate.

"We still need to do better and get a clean sheet to give our attackers a chance to win a game but each match we're getting better."

Meanwhile, experienced defender Kirk Broadfoot could challenge the young duo for a starting berth when Rotherham return to action at Norwich on Saturday.

Broadfoot has been out since the opening day but Stubbs revelaed he expected the 32-year-old to be available following the current international break.