Gary McSheffrey believes Tuesday evening’s visit from Rotherham United will be the toughest test yet for his Rovers side but he hopes his team can take confidence from improved recent performances.
The Millers will arrive at the Eco-Power Stadium sitting top of the table, and McSheffrey believes that Rovers will need to be at their best to get something from the match.
On Rotherham United test:
“They’ve gone about things in a way that has become typical of them over the past few seasons. Whenever they play in this league, they’re always up there and they have been promoted out of this league a few times.
“They’re a well-run ship, really organised with good, experienced pros and fresh youngsters. They’ve got target men who can mix things up.
“With a manager who has been in charge for five years, you’d expect that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities and whether they’re home or away, they’ll fancy themselves because they’re a good outfit and a good squad.
“It’s going to be a really tough game. We know it’s massive game, but we’ll be looking to implement our own strengths and style on the match.”
On his opposite number Paul Warne:
“I know Paul. He’s a nice guy, a humble guy. He’s always at youth games watching the younger players so one of the qualities I’d take from him is his people skills.
“I think whatever players goes into that group, they give everything for him, and I like how he builds relationships with his players.
“He’s been given the time to do that, and he’s had the success to show for that.”
On the squad he’s built:
“I can’t wait to get stuck into things now.
“This is our squad now so we can really focus on the players and what we feel is the best outfit and way to play.
“It’s a busy month of games but as and when we can, we’ll get to know the players and who plays well with who. We’ll learn which strike partnership compliments each other the best.
“It’s been a strange time to come into a management role. It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster and you have to delegate where to focus your time, but it’s been good. The club have backed me in providing me with support staff I can delegate certain roles too so that I can focus on the job which is ultimately getting the lads ready to go out on the pitch.”