Tyler Blackett and his pre-injury Rotherham United contract revelation

Tyler Blackett plays for Rotherham United against Bristol City in the Championship match in which he would later sustain a serious injury. Picture: Jim Brailsford

The centre-half, who signed a 12-month deal in the summer, had been one of the Millers' stand-out performers until tearing his hamstring in the Wednesday-night clash with Bristol City at AESSEAL New York Stadium on October 4.

Only five days earlier, during the Championship trip to Cardiff City, he had told the Advertiser he was open to the prospect of a longer stay in S60.

“I'm enjoying it,” he said. "I just wanted to play and show what I can do and I've been given the chance to do that here.

“Another year? If all things are going well, then why not?”

Manager Matt Taylor had been delighted with Blackett's form and the ex Manchester United youngster may well have been one of the players with whom the boss was intending to open new-contract negotiations.

Ironically, given the severity of the injury that was to come, the centre-back also talked at Cardiff City Stadium about how pleased he was with physical well-being.

“A full pre-season has helped me massively," said the 29-year-old who had suffered hamstring issues during a short-term spell with Rotherham last term.

“It got my body in the right place and put me in good stead for the start of the season. I feel good.”