Millers’ finances lifted by Reading’s elevation

Le Fondre, who spent two years with the Millers, has scored 11 goals in 16 starts since joining Reading in a £300,000 switch eight months ago.

Under the terms of the deal, the Millers are entitled to further money following Reading’s promotion. There could be further payments depending on the player’s success in the top flight.

The Millers host Morecambe this afternoon knowing that, mathematically, they can still qualify for the play-offs.

However, they are five points adrift of seventh-placed Oxford United with only two games to play.

New manager Steve Evans has confirmed that veteran goalkeeper Andy Warrington will come in from the cold today after being exiled by former manager Andy Scott.

Warrington, 35, will be out of contract in the summer but Evans is not ruling out the possibility of a new deal.

“Andy will start because we have to give him the opportunity to show that he deserves to be here next season,” said Evans.

“I have always thought Andy was a top-class player. I am looking to give everyone a chance but you can’t assess anyone when they play in the reserves.”

The Millers will have nine other players out of contract this summer – Mark Bradley, Richard Naylor, Tom Newey, Danny Harrison, Marcus Marshall, Paul Warne, Ollie Banks, Jamie Annerson and Luke Foster.

Loan signings Rhys Taylor, Sam Wood, Sam Hoskins, Kieron Cadogna and Scott Griffiths will also return to parent clubs.

“We have to make sure this club is challenging for promotion and we need players who can get us there,” said Evans.

“I don’t believe in sentiment and I am sure the chairman doesn’t if we are not getting results.”

Evans is already considering moves for players from his former club Crawley Town.

“I have a good relationship with the owners and I have spoken with Steve Coppell several times this week about various different things,” he said.

“If Crawley don’t get promoted this season, it will be an injustice.”