Semi Ajayi happy to stay with Rotherham United

The centre-half knows his form for the Championship Millers is attracting attention elsewhere but can see a future with the Millers beyond the next transfer window.

"I'm really behind what we're doing here," he said. "It's a really good project. I think we can do big things in this league and I'm pleased to be part of it.

"I'd be happy to still be here after January, absolutely, 100 per cent."

Ajayi, who has just celebrated his 25th birthday, played a major role in Rotherham's League One promotion and has been a stand-out performer a division higher this term as Paul Warne's men have kept themselves above the drop zone.

The Millers are under no pressure to cash in on the player when the month-long window opens on January 1 as he is under contract until the summer of 2020.

Manager Warne, planning to take advantage of the international break by watching a possible transfer target of his own last Saturday, has already said it would take an "eye-watering" offer to tempt Rotherham to let their prized asset go.

Ajayi, who came on as a substitute in Nigeria's 1-1 draw in South Africa at the weekend, added: "Interest from other clubs is not in my control.

"It's flattering but at the end of the day I can only focus on my performances on the pitch. If I let my performances slip, all that attention goes away.

"I'm not focused on any interest. I'm just focused on playing as well as I can and January will deal with itself."

The defender was brought by Warne to AESSEAL New York Stadium from Cardiff City for nothing nearly two years ago and his value is now in the millions.

The former Arsenal youngster's talent was obvious from the outset and his value has soared as he has eradicated inconsistency from his game.

"The difference to last season is that maybe my style is more suited to this league," he said.

"I feel more confident as well. The team's playing well, I'm playing well. It's a really good place to be. The work put in by the gaffer and his staff have made me a better player."

Warne said last month: "Unless the offer was eye-watering, there is no reason to sell. We don't need the money. Either it's an offer we can't turn down or Semi stays."

Central defender Sean Raggett, out since early September with an ankle injury, was due to return to full training with the first-team squad today.

A version of this article appeared in last Friday's Advertiser