The proposed points deduction – for failing to exit administration according to Football League rules – follows talks earlier this week between the League and the club's prospective new owner, Tony Stewart, when assurances over the club's future were sought.

As well as the points penalty another part of the offer made to the new owners by the League last night, was that the club must also return to play in Rotherham within four years or face losing a £750,000 bond along with their membership of the League.

The Millers are set to play their home games at Sheffield's Don Valley Stadium after quitting Millmoor foillowing a row over rental costs.

The club must agree to the League's offer by noon tomorrow but they are not expected to oppose any part of it.

While disappointed with the amount of points deducted, Stewart said last night the club would now be even more determined to move forward.

"Obviously I'm disappointed because I would have preferred a smaller points deduction but I genuinely believe it could have been worse," said Stewart.

"I think we've just got to accept what's happened and get on with it.

"As far as I'm concerned there are no obstacles in the way of us starting this season.

"We had a good side last season and I think we've got an even better side this time around.

"I'm an ambitious chairman and I work very closely with the manager.

"Despite the points deduction, it's still not just a case of us surviving in this league.

"I still believe we have a chance of making the play-offs," he added.