Why a big moment is coming up for Rotherham United attacker Josh Kayode after an injury-plagued season

The striker had thigh surgery in Ferbruary.

YOUNG Rotherham United striker Josh Kayode is close to taking a significant step in his rehabilitation after a season wrecked by injury troubles.

The Republic of Ireland under-21 international was sidelined by a knee issue during his loan spell at MK Dons and then suffered a thigh problem that required surgery.

He has been back with the Millers since February and is poised in the next week or so for his first outdoor session since his operation.

“He’ll start jogging in straight lines but the end of the season will be upon us,” said manager Matt Taylor. ”Then he’ll have a six-week period of more rehab to get him close to being fully fit for pre-season.”

Kayode, aged 22, made 29 appearances in the Millers’ League One promotion campaign last year and had ten outings for MK this term. He hasn’t played since October.

Taylor, caught up in Rotherham’s Championship survival bid, took the AESSEAL New York Stadium hot-seat while the centre-forward was out on loan.

The boss said: “I didn’t know Josh previously but I knew of him. He’s come back and fitted in. I’m trying to get to know him a little bit but the injured players aren’t the main priority. I know that’s sad to say.”

Centre-half Sean Morrison, hit by a very similar injury a fortnight before Kayode’s misfortune, is back running on grass. The 32-year-old made two January appearances for the Millers whom he joined on a deal until the summer following his departure from Cardiff City.