One of the big reasons why Rotherham United chose to sign Josh Austerfield
The new boy may go straight into the Millers squad
The fitness record of new boy Josh Austerfield was a key factor in Rotherham United bringing the midfielder to AESSEAL New York Stadium, boss Alex Bruce has revealed.
The 24-year-old today became the club's 12th summer signing - with more set to come - after spending the last two years with League Two rivals Salford.
The Morley-born man racked in half a century appearances for the Ammies in the 2025/26 campaign that culminated in a play-off-final trip to Wembley to face Notts County.
"He's definitely a durable player. which is one of the main attractions for us," Bruce said. "He played a lot of games last year. He's a good age, a good athlete and he can get about the pitch. They are the main attributes that I really like."
The Millers were beset by injury troubles before the head coach's June appointment and he is determined to keep the treatment room as clear as possible this term
Bruces knows Austerfield well, having been part of the coaching set-up at Salford when the player left Huddersfield Town to move to the Peninsula Stadium in 2024.
"He's someone I've worked with before," the boss said. "He'll gives us good energy, good legs in the middle of the pitch. He played 50-odd games last season in League Two with Salford, who were unlucky to get beaten in the play-off final. He's got experience of the level.
"He gives us good competition for places in midfield. We didn't have a lot of competition prior to his arrival, so I'm really pleased we've got him done. I'm sure he'll be a good signing.
Austerfield has agreed a two-year deal and Rotherham hold an option to extend by a further 12 months.
"It's a good deal for everybody involved," said Bruce. "It's a good deal for Josh. He's a Yorkshire lad, he knows what the area's all about. He knows what Rotherham are and what he needs to do to be successful here. I'm sure he'll be a player that the supporters enjoy watching."
The new boy could go straight into the squad for Saturday's visit of Chesterfield (kick-off 1pm), especially as Jamie Jellis may miss out with a calf strain.