We've more chance with fans right behind us: Warne

The Millers open their home Championship programme against Paul Hurst's Ipswich Town tomorrow after a frustrating week on the transfer front.

They weren’t able to nail down a permanent signing before yesterday’s deadline and, today, an hoped-for loan deal didn’t materialise.

Combined with last Saturday’s heavy beating at Brentford, there is concern.

Warne is under no illusions about the size of the task this season but also stresses that it is early days.

He told the Advertiser:  “It will be a very difficult challenge and it will be for every other club in our division.

"Every game is like a cup final because the teams we're going to play and the places we are going to go are amazing. I think everyone should enjoy it and if the team doesn't win on Saturday, you just have to support them in the next game, that's how football is. It is crucial the fans stay behind us.

"If you don't stay behind your team, you are giving the players on the pitch even less chance. If they don't put the effort in, fair enough, but I would be amazed if they never did that because they all want to show what they can do at this level.”

Semi Ajayi scraps it out in the defeat at Brentford.

Warne needs to boost numbers in his depleted central midfield and would ideally have liked someone in for the weekend.

He said: “We started last season with four central midfielders. This year we have two centre-mids and Darren Potter out injured so it is evident we need people in that position.

“I know that Semi Ajayi can play there if needs be, as can Billy Jones and young Ben Wiles, but I can’t rely on them three as proper back-up for Will (Vaulks) and Matt (Palmer) and those two also need competition. If not, they could cruise. I’m not saying they would, because it’s not in their character, but you need people behind you to keep you on your toes.”

Added Warne: “I'm looking forward to a home game after last week's awakening. It showed we need to be better at everything, so that could be the best thing that happened to us.”