Boss Paul Warne explains why Freddie Ladapo didn't get on the pitch for Rotherham United at Fleetwood Town

The Millers were chasing victory at Fleetwood Town yesterday before going down 1-0 to a stoppage-time goal but their 12-goal striker remained an unused substitute.

Ladapo told the club earlier this month that he wanted a move in the transfer window and hasn't featured in the two matches since the news was leaked.

"The situation obviously affects my decision on whether to bring him on," said boss Paul Warne after watching his team slip to third place.

"Freddie was in my team every week before he put a transfer request in. It would be stupid to think my attitude towards him hasn't changed."

However, the manager says the 28-year-old could still have a future at AESSEAL New York Stadium if no-one meets Rotherham's valuation of a player who cost them £400,000 plus significant add-ons two and half years ago.

"He's trained really well. I did consider putting him on, I definitely did," Warne said. "I might even start him on Tuesday night (at home to Lincoln City). 

"I haven't washed my hands of Freddie, anything but. I hope he stays our player. In the meantime, I've got to manage the whole dressing room."

Warne opted for youngster Josh Kayode ahead of Ladapo when he substituted Will Grigg at half-time at Highbury Stadium.

A departure for the frontman isn't imminent, with the boss adding: "Nothing has been put in front of me. We haven't turned down any offers for Freddie."

Meanwhile, the Millers issued an official apology to Fleetwood on Saturday evening after there was noise in the away end during a pre-match minute's silence for Town fans who had passed away in the previous 12 months.

A statement read: "Everyone at Rotherham United would like to wholeheartedly apologise to the players, staff and supporters at Fleetwood Town for the behaviour of a small minority of our fans.

"We totally condemn the actions of a number of individuals who disrupted the pre-match tribute and reaffirm our association with the vast majority of supporters in attendance who observed it with great respect.

"The actions of said individuals totally goes against the values that we pride ourselves on holding as a football club and we know that the tribute was incredibly important to everyone at Fleetwood Town."

Punches were also thrown among Millers followers after the final whistle and fighting later erupted outside the ground.