Millers will fight Watford’s talent with tenacity

Evans’s twice-promoted side began with a narrow defeat at Derby County on the opening day before riding their luck to overcome Wolverhampton Wanderers at an atmospheric New York Stadium on Saturday.

Watford are the next visitors to South Yorkshire, with the Millers’ manager under no illusions as to the size of the task facing a side who, just two years ago, were preparing to face Northampton Town in League Two.

“I’ve seen Watford and they’re the best of the three we’ll have played to start the season,” said Evans.

“Everyone was surprised with how they lost on Saturday. Even with 10 men at Norwich they were the better team.

“It’s a super side packed with talent and they have two strikers who are the best outside the Premier League. Matej Vydra is the best 
No 10 for me at the level and Troy Deeney is a player I’ve always liked.

“We know how tough it will be. I think it will be three of the top six come the end of the season that we have faced in the opening three games.”

With the tough challenges coming one after another in a second tier packed with Premier League rejects and wannabes, Evans is understandably delighted his side registered their first win of the season against Wolves.

“It was massively important,” he said. “The last time Rotherham were promoted it took them 11 games to win.

“Every week at this level we have to have a tenacity, a desire, a hunger and a passion to win.”

Evans confirmed there had been no fresh bids for Kieran Agard, who turned down Leeds United last week. He said: “Like with the Stevie May situation, we said ‘no’ to him. It wasn’t the opposite. Our wage structure didn’t suit.

“If Kieran Agard’s value is not met we will say no and he can run his contract down, that’s my understanding from the chairman.”

Last six games: Rotherham United DWDLDW, Watford LLLWWL.

Last time: Rotherham 0 Watford 1; April 16, 2005; Championship.

Referee: D Webb (County Durham).