Rotherham United's unexpected Denzel Hall boost
ROTHERHAM United have avoided a “nightmare” situation this weekend as they head to Luton Town with key man Denzel Hall in their ranks.
The Millers were expecting the talented wing-back to receive his first call-up from Jamaica and miss Saturday's showdown at Kenilworth Road between two of League One's form sides.
The absence of the 24-year-old would have been a severe blow, coming on top of attacker Ar'Jany Martha being on international duty with Curacao and centre-half Lenny Agbaire conceding defeat in his attempt to play through a groin problem.
“I'm really surprised about Denzel, if I'm going to be honest,” manager Matt Hamshaw said. “But that's up to (Jamaica manager) Steve McClaren.
“I know that he was hoping that he'd get called up. Selfishly, though, it's good for us as it means he's available to face Luton.
“We've haven't got Lenny because of his struggles with his groins and Ar'Jany is away. Had we lost Denzel we well, it would have been a bit of a nightmare.” The boss believes that Jamaica recognition is only a matter of time for the Dutch-born summer signing who qualifies for the Caribbean island through his heritage.
“You've seen all season that he's a player who should be playing international football,” Hamshaw said. “I think that if he keeps performing as he is, then he will.”
Meanwhile, the bug that was affecting several members of the squad during last weekend's 3-0 triumph over Lincoln City has lingered but isn't likely to lead to anyone dropping out of contention for the Luton match.
It's the second time this season that Rotherham, who remain without any recognised senior centre-halves, have had sickness in the camp.
“There's still a little bit of coughing and one or two other bits,” Hamshaw said. “We seem to be over the worst of it, but I'm always concerned about something being around the corner, with the way the season has gone so far with injuries and illness.”
The contest pits 12th-placed Rotherham – with four wins and two draws in their last six third-tier outings – against opponents in ninth spot who have won their last four matches in all competitions.
“It should be a really good game,” Hamshaw said. “It is an opportunity for this group of lads to be united, be together and give it a right good go against top opposition.
“Luton are in a good run of form, as are we. They have good players, we have good players, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how my players can adapt to what will be a tough fixture.
“We'll probably have a good travelling contingent down there. Our supporters will get behind the lads. I hope that come five o'clock on Saturday it's the Millers fans who are cheering.”