Rotherham United hope for Vassell and Crooks boost as they bid to reclaim top spot from Ipswich Town

Both were missing last Saturday when the Millers lost for the first time in eight matches, at Peterborough United, to slip off the League One summit.

But they could be in the frame for the clash at AESSEAL New York Stadium against the Tractor Boys which sees Rotherham play at home on a Tuesday night in the league for the first time this season.

"I want my best players available," manager Paul Warne said. "If Crooksy's back and Vass is back, even if I don't start them they are better options off the bench. I don't mean that rudely to anyone.

"They have been pivotal to our recent run of form, Crooksy especially. Vass has been crucial in the last few games. Vass should be all right, which is good news."

Striker Vassell was sidelined by a calf niggle last weekend while midfielder Crooks left the team hotel on the morning of the match after hearing of the assault on his best friend, Jordan Sinnott, who has since tragically died.

Vassell has scored five goals in his last five outings while Crooks played a major role in a run of five consecutive victories before the Posh loss.

Ipswich leapfrogged the Millers into first place by beating Lincoln City and Warne - a lifelong supporter of Town's derby rivals, Norwich City - believes that could work in his team's favour.

Kyle Vassell

"Because they've taken top spot off us it just adds something to Tuesday's match," the boss said.

“It's second versus first and we're the underdogs, which is always a joy for my players because it suits their mentality.

"As a Norwich fan beating Ipswich, if possible, is always a win-win for me. It will be a big game, although the three points aren't worth any more than in any other game.

"We need to respond to defeat at Peterborough with a performance. More often than not, against the better teams at home we've done all right. The atmosphere should be electric."