Evans admits budget constraints in final months at Rotherham United

A statement on behalf of the Scot was issued this afternoon, a week on from his shock exit from Rotherham following differences in the future direction of the club with chairman Tony Stewart.

Evans says he can reflect on ‘three breathtaking seasons’ at the club, with staying up last season surpassing two back-to-back promotions, in his opinion.

Meanwhile, Evans also claimed that the seasonal budget he was operating at the club this year was the same as last year, despite the objective being for the club to clinch safety while pushing for mid-table.

That said, Evans says he believes the club can push for that.

Evans’ statement in full reads: “On my departure from Rotherham United, the club is firmly established playing Championship football.

“Consecutive promotions from League Two is largely unprecedented in the modern day game and I am rightfully very proud to have led my staff, players and supporters during three breathtaking seasons, simply wonderful achievements.

“In my first season as manager in League Two, 2012/2013, automatic promotion to League One was achieved.

“A consecutive promotion to the Championship in my second season was achieved via an incredible end of season play off final victory at Wembley Stadium.

“In my third season, 2014/2015, the objective was for Rotherham United to retain Championship status. This had to be achieved whilst operating on a significantly lower budget than any of the competing teams.

“Despite the well documented financial disadvantage, the team continued to play with vigour, enterprise and passion, the objective was again achieved.

“It was a season that provided many other obstacles such as the deduction of three points for an administrative error but the football staff, players and those fantastic supporters continued to defy the odds and again produced outstanding results.

“In the current season, the objective was set for the team to retain their Championship status by way of pushing for a near mid-table finish, but doing so spending the same team budget as actually spent in the previous season.

“The team started the season with some poor results, but injuries and unavailable players were key contributory factors.

“As those players gradually became available for selection and with the addition of a couple of new players, the team was now near to what I considered to be capable of a mid-table finish.

“In turn it was no surprise to me when we comfortably beat Cardiff City and Birmingham City with the two best performances of the season.

“Those deserved wins witnessed the team move significantly up the Championship League table to within three points and a cluster of clubs in and or around mid-table, further demonstrable success versus the previous season.

“I leave behind an excellent chairman, quality staff and a squad of players that have much more to deliver.

“In respect of the staff and players, I believe they are all very capable young men, each and every one of them has played a significant part to date.

“A mid-table finish in the Championship is the minimum this group of men should achieve in the season ahead.

“In summary, my last five seasons in football management have included four promotions and retaining Championship status.

“For me, the best achievement of the five was retaining our status in the Championship. When there is knowledge, organisation, team spirit and desire plus a clear plan, much against the odds can be achieved.

“I am now positive and ready for my next challenge in football.”