Black too busy to think about long-term future at Rotherham

Following the departure of Steve Evans on Monday, Black will ensure that another Tartan presence will be in the technical area for tomorrow night’s televised home clash with Burnley.

The 51-year-old, who joined the Millers in the summer as first-team coach and who has previously held managerial posts at Coventry and Motherwell, says he has been too busy preparing the side to consider whether he could be a candidate for the permanent position.

The Millers have already received scores of applications from prospective managers.

Representatives of former Sunderland boss Paolo di Canio have reportedly got in touch, although any move for the Italian would be unlikely.

Former Leeds United and Sheffield United chief Neil Warnock has ruled himself out of the running.

Among the favourites for the post are Darren Ferguson, Neil Redfearn – who is said to be keen on the job – and Stuart Gray.

As for his own claims, Black said: “I’ve got to be honest. I’ve not considered it one iota.

“My head’s not really been lifted for the last 24-48 hours preparing training, and obviously we’re a couple of people down, so it’s just been the organisation of that.

“I’ve reiterated this to the players, I don’t want what’s happened to derail what have been two fantastic performances. I won’t allow that to happen on my watch.”

Despite being fully preoccupied ahead of the Roses test, Black admits to being ‘flattered’ at being asked to lead the Millers on a caretaker basis, having previously performed the role at the likes of Sunderland, Birmingham City and Blackburn Rovers.

Black added: “It’s the sixth time I’ve been put in this position (as caretaker boss), so it’s a role that was semi-familiar to me.

“I was flattered the chairman considered me the right individual to do it on Friday and I’ll do it to the best of my ability.”

As for his long-term future, with a potential new man bringing in a fresh management team, Black remains philosophical.

He said: “I am under no illusions that whatever happens, I will need to make a decision or a decision will be made for me. That’s normally the way it works.”