The deals that took Rotherham United kids to the Premier League

Last season, the Millers sold two young prospects when Premier League clubs came calling.

Under-16s goalkeeper George Hardy went to Wolverhampton Wanderers while an unnamed outfield performer from the U-11s set-up moved to Manchester United.

“Success for us is either getting a player to the first team or selling one," says academy head of recruitment Scott Duncanson.

“Some people say that selling a player is like selling children, like slave labour, but it isn't really.

“The player and his family have the final say. Usually, if Manchester United come in, the player wants to go! We're pleased we've been a vehicle in their development and progress.

“The only time there would be any resistance from a player would be if he was an out-and-out Miller and his dream was to play for Rotherham United.”

After consulting with his staff when a bid comes in, academy manager Richard Hairyes makes a recommendation over whether a sale should proceed and the final decision is taken at board level.

At the other end of the scale, the Millers do their utmost to help youngsters they have decided won't make the grade, with academy staff using their contacts to try to get those who are departing fixed up elsewhere.

“When we release players we don't want them to sink and to never be seen again,” Duncanson said. “We want them to get something else.

“There's always a risk that they might go on to something bigger and better than you. That's a chance you have to take.”