STEVE EVANS has committed to revitalize Rotherham United and put them in strong contention for an immediate return to the Championship for the fourth time in a row following relegation.
The former Leeds United manager will be properly reintroduced to Millers fans ahead of Saturday’s home game against Birmingham City, who were ironically the opponents for Evans’ final match in command during his first stay at the club in September 2015.
The Scot’s previous famous three-and-a-half-year reign saw the Millers win back-to-back promotions and remain in the second division.
Now he is tasked with reviving a club that has been relegated to League One.
Following Evans’ appointment, chairman Tony Stewart stated that the club’s goal is to return to the Championship ‘at the first time of asking,’ and Evans is up for the job.
The 62-year-old, whose unfancied Stevenage team was in play-off contention in League One for the bulk of 2023-24 before a late collapse, said: “I’ve always lived my career with expectation in mind.
“I analyze our performance and establish my own benchmarks for where we need to be. We will compete for promotion next season.
He continued, “It’s amazing. It was something I had hoped for since the day I left. We’d spoken once or twice, but never with the stars aligned.
“Then, in the last day or so, the chairman said, ‘I’ve decided with the board’s approval that the job is yours if you want it.'” I couldn’t say yes fast enough. It’s like coming home.
“The chairman has expedited the move so I have a proper assessment, not just of the players, but the infrastructure and staffing structure and everything.”We start with a clean slate, much like the last time I arrived a few games before the end of the season.
“We’ve received an incredible welcome in town, from being stopped at the gas station to visiting businesses and restaurants. It’s incredible; we just hope we can give our chairman, board, and supporters justice and allow them to enjoy football again.”
Chairman Stewart added: “Steve is dedicated to Rotherham, and these are exciting times.
“We’ve made headlines for dropping from the Championship to League One, and we should be in the Guinness Book of Records for hopping backwards and forwards. The goal is to return to the Championship as soon as possible and then shoot for the stars.”
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