Injury setback for Rotherham United's Ryan Williams and Joe Newell sees specialist

ATTACKER Ryan Williams is facing a spell on the sidelines as Rotherham United battle against injuries in their push for Championship safety.
Ryan WilliamsRyan Williams
Ryan Williams

The 25-year-old, who can play on either flank or in a 'No 10' role, damaged his hamstring in training last week and manager Paul Warne expects him to be out of action for around three weeks.

The Millers are already without striker Jamie Proctor, who has had surgery on a hip problem, and left winger Joe Newell, laid low by a groin complaint.

"Willo had an accident at the training ground," said Warne who side remain two points above the drop zone after last Saturday's 4-2 home loss against Brentford.

"His foot went over the ball and he stretched his hamstring. Regrettably, he's out for two or three weeks. That limits us quite a bit because it leaves us with only two fit wingers at the club. 

"Newelly is out for a few weeks. I think we missed Willo's dynamism against Brentford. When he came on at Ipswich the week before, he was brilliant. He was lively and bright. His injury is a blow for us."

Joe Newell

Newell was due to see a specialist today and the club are hoping he won't need an operation.

There is better news on forward Kyle Vassell who made his return after a near-two-month absence as a substitute against the Bees.

Rotherham had feared he may require surgery but tests have shown his injured groin is responding to treatment.

"The physios say that his groin has got stronger as the week has gone on," said Warne after last Saturday's clash.

The Millers are still hoping to turn midfielder Richie Towell's season-long loan deal into a permanent one during the January transfer window.

Talks have taken place with the player's agent and with parent club Brighton & Hove Albion.

"As of yet, I have no news one way or the other," Warne said. "Richie is pretty prominent in our team every week. It would be great if we could get him here permanently. He's a good character in the dressing room. 

"It would also allow me to not worry about him in the summer and allow me to bring in another loan player. My group, at the moment, need a little bit of help."

Midfielder Matt Palmer didn't make the squad for the Brentford clash, fuelling speculation he will leave the club before the end of the month.

"He had an illness on Friday so he wasn't available for selection," Warne said.