Jonson Clarke-Harris and Shaun McWilliams could finally pull on Rotherham United shirts at Alfreton Town on Tuesday after injuries have disrupted their pre-seasons.

The Millers have got a lot of business done early ahead of their return to League One, allowing manager Steve Evans to start gelling his players together whilst rival squads are still being assembled.

When forward Esapa Osong joined on loan from Nottingham Forest on Thursday, he was the Millers’ 12th signing of a hectic window which has built optimism and momentum after a demoralising 2023-24 which ended in relegation from the Championship.

But striker Clarke-Harris, who has returned to the club after being released by Peterborough United, and McWilliams, a free transfer signing from Northampton Town, have had to bide their time.

IN THE FRAME: Shaun McWilliams (left) - a summer signing from Northampton Town - is close to seeing action with Rotherham. Picture: George Tewkesbury/PA

Both were due to train on Monday, giving manager Evans has a decision to make on whether they should return for the friendly away to Conference North side Alfreton, or for Saturday's visit of Championship Sheffield United, which will see the Millers’ pre-season preparations move up a notch.

Rotherham United summer signings closing in on first appearances after injury