Millers ready for Preston

MANAGER Steve Evans insists that Rotherham United are fresh and eager to take another big-name scalp at the New York Stadium tomorrow.

After digging deep to salvage their first League One point at Crewe last Saturday and then dump Sheffield Wednesday out of the Capital One Cup at a heaving New York Stadium on Tuesday night, he needs to keep his players physically and mentally on the ball.

Evans expects no problems given the character in the squad and says the 11 he sends out will be able to test a strong Preston North End side.

He said: “The Crewe and Sheffield Wednesday games have only reminded me of the qualities of this group of players. They have flaws of inconsistency but their desire and their fitness levels are second to none.

“They know this is a massive game just like Tuesday's was. Preston are another big club and their manager, Simon Grayson, has managed at the top end of the Championship.

“The players had Wednesday off — that would have been the case win, lose or draw — but we'll work them into the weekend and they'll be ready come 3 o'clock on Saturday.”

The Millers have a fresh injury doubt over Lee Frecklington, who took a blow to the back on Tuesday night. He is rated 50/50 and will undergo a late fitness test.

Meanwhile, Evans is looking forward to taking his team to Premier League big guns Aston Villa in the next round of the Capital One Cup.

"I'm sure we'll take a big following down to Villa Park," he added.