MATCHDAY CENTRE: Stubbs backs Millers

MANAGER Alan Stubbs is backing his Rotherham United side to come through a sticky start to the season.

Last night’s defeat at Brighton was their second 3-0 defeat in four days combined with the weekend reverse at Aston Villa.

After a decent first 20 minutes, the Millers were undone by two goals in quick succession from Anthony Knockaert and Glenn Murray. Tomer Hemed added a second-half penalty before Stubbs’ men rallied late on.

“We’ve had a tough start, it doesn’t necessarily getting any tougher than Brighton and Villa away,” said Stubbs. “Brighton’s home form last season was very impressive and I don’t see that being any different this season. We have players who are adapting to the division but I thought there were some better performances in the second half.

“We have changed considerably the way we try and play and our squad has to grow into the demands of this division very quickly. When they do, they`ll compete much better.”

Stubbs reiterated that his search for new blood continues, with forward reinforcements a priority to help get a foothold in the Championship. Rotherham have one point on the board so far from their opening-day draw with Wolves.

They chase a first win back at the AESSEAL New York Stadium on Saturday against Brentford, who have had a good start under Dean Smith and beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 last night.

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