Millers focus on manager search

ROTHERHAM United will step up their search for a new manager next week, with bookies' favourite Mark Robins said to be interested in a return to the club.

The sacking of Andy Scott on Monday set in motion a guessing game about his successor and by yesterday the number of applicants stood at 40 and rising.

Brian Laws, Martin Allen, Kevin Blackwell, Phil Brown and Lee Clark have all been linked with the post along with Robins, who left for Barnsley in 2009 after doing a good job in difficult circumstances.

He saw the team through administration and the move to Don Valley Stadium and although there was some dismay about the manner of his departure, he would be a strong candidate.

Sources close to Robins, out of work since leaving Barnsley last summer, say he is interested, but when contacted by the Advertiser this week he was guarded.

He said: "I'm definitely looking for work but it has to be the right opportunity for me and the club.

"I have had opportunities to get back into the game but it has not been right."

With the lure of the New York Stadium on the horizon and the backing of ambitious chairman Tony Stewart, there is no shortage of interest in the job.

The club expect to compile a shortlist over the weekend and start interviewing early next week.