Autumn start for training ground

The Millers acquired the 14-acre former Outokumpu site at Brinsworth last year to replace their temporary base at Parkgate.

The idea is to create an Academy-standard training hub for all players from junior to senior level, with top-class facilities to compliment those on a matchday at the New York Stadium.

Youth players have been using it in the meantime but once the new ground is up and running, full attention will be turned to the training base.

Player facilities manager Dave Fellowes said: "We're not looking to start the renovation work until September because with the stadium project still ongoing, we don't want to take on too much at once.

"There is a lot of work to do at the training ground, what with excavation, levelling and drainage and renovating the existing buildings and we want to be able to give it our full attention."

External funding is being sought to create the type of set-up that will be the envy of many clubs and be a honey pot for better players.

Dave added: "We're looking at Level 2 Academy status and that all depends upon the number of pitches, the quality of them and the other facilities. It basically means the club will be able to enter a higher youth league and attract better players."