Ipswich Town v Rotherham United: Millers duo can make grade at higher level

The same can be said for several other Millers players who led them to promotion in thrilling fashion last term, but Steve Evans feels that all will have key parts to play in 2014-15, with the performances of Freckington and Pringle in last weekend’s draw against Charlton providing positive signs.

With the Millers down on numbers this afternoon, both could be handed a chance to impress.

On the pair still getting to grips with Championship life, Evans said: “Yes they are. But when you look at the second half against Charlton, I watched a performance from Lee Frecklington that was as good as anything from an attacking midfield player that I have seen for or against us this season.

“I also saw Ben Pringle suddenly have that little bit of swagger.

“Those type of players, with their ability levels, can certainly play in the Championship, that is never in doubt.

“But I have always said it, performances in 90 minutes and on the training ground need to dictate that they get selected.”

Today sees loan striker Luciano Becchio make a quick return to East Anglia after leaving Norwich City for the Millers on transfer deadline day.

After the best part of 18 months without regular first-team football, the Argentinian is still playing catch-up on his fitness, which is likely to be significantly boosted by the middle of next month, according to Evans.

He said: “He is significantly better than where we were. But we have always said that it will be post the (next) international break when we feel the benefit of being able to get him two weeks of sharp, physical work of things he would normally do in pre-season.”