Why Rotherham United haven't seen the last of injured loan defender Bailey Wright

BAILEY Wright will be a matchday regular at AESSEAL New York Stadium even though his Rotherham United loan spell has been cut short by injury.

The centre-half tore his ankle ligaments in the 3-1 win over West Bromwich Albion earlier this month and is undergoing treatment back at Sunderland.

However, the 30-year-old Australian international became so attached to Rotherham during his time in South Yorkshire that he’s keen to be a presence in their changing room for the final few games as they look to safeguard their place in the second tier.

“Bailey wants to be part of it,” said manager Matt Taylor after Saturday’s 2-0 home loss to Luton Town. “He was here today. He’s got his foot in a protective boot and to see a specialist to see if he needs surgery. He came here to do a job and he wants to be involved and see it through. That’s testament to him and what we have in the squad.”

Wright, who has a year left on his deal at the Stadium of Light, played eight times for the Millers following his January switch from the Black Cats.

Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray said: “He’s going to do some of his rehab here, but he’s going to work around their matches and have his face around the dressing room. He’s enjoyed his experience there.”

The defender is expected to be fit for the start of pre-season at the end of June.