Steve Evans' stance on Rotherham United being too close to the League One drop zone for comfort

The Millers head to the south west with the gap between them and the drop zone having narrowed to six points following a run of five defeats in their last seven third-tier outings.

A positive January had brought talk of a play-off push but now a number of lower clubs are within striking distance of Evans' 15th-placed side.

When asked this morning if Rotherham could slip into trouble, the manager replied: “I've not got those thoughts.

“I've got thoughts of getting a positive result in Bristol on Saturday and being closer to the top half of the table. We have to remain positive.”

In a bid to revive the club's fortunes, Evans held a squad get-together after a poor display had led to a 1-0 home loss against derby rivals Barnsley last Saturday.

That setback came a week after the Millers had played well and been unlucky to go down 2-1 at Reading.

“We had a very constructive meeting on Monday,” he said. “Everyone knew after Barnsley that we were a way down on where we needed to be.

“Give me a ‘Reading’ performance at Bristol and I'll stand in front of whatever the result is.”

Rovers are below Rotherham in the table but have won three and drawn one of their last four fixtures on their own turf and represent a tough test.

"They're good at home and have a passionate support behind them but we'll travel there hoping and expecting to win," Evans said. The Gas, in 19th spot, could go level with the Millers' 38 points if they send the visitors home empty-handed on Saturday.

Rotherham have midfielders Cameron Humphreys and Shaun McWilliams available after illness and injury respectively but have a doubt hanging over right-back Joe Rafferty who has been absent from their Roundwood base this week.

“Joe has been off ill,” Evans said. “We're hoping to see him bounce back in today and we'll see how he goes. He's a very fit boy and he's played a lot of games. If he can train tomorrow, he'll be on the coach to Bristol.”

McWilliams returned to the bench against Barnsley after missing seven matches with a hamstring complaint.

“He's ready,” Evans said. “There are no issues. He's had a really good week on the training ground. He was very impressive in a practice match on Tuesday.”

The Millers will be without Liam Kelly, who is due back out on the grass on Monday after a calf problem, while Sean Raggett (knee), Alex MacDonald (groin) and young loanee Dan Gore (foot) will also miss out.