Neil Redfearn bringing new passing style to Rotherham

Rotherham's players have bought into new boss Neil Redfearn's passing style of play, says midfielder Richard Smallwood.

Redfearn replaced Steve Evans - who has since joined Leeds - as Millers boss earlier this month, inheriting a side struggling at the wrong end of the table.

Smallwood admits he was surprised at the departure of a man who guided the club to successive promotions but said his team-mates were enjoying Redfearn's approach.

"I think a lot of people were surprised [at Evans' departure] but we wish him all the best - his record speaks for itself," said Smallwood, speaking to Sky Sports News HQ ahead of Friday's Sky Live clash with Sheffield Wednesday.

"It is a little bit different [under Redfearn].

"We're still trying to press and nullify the opposition but we're trying to pass it a bit more. We're buying into it, we're all on the same page.

"He likes to be on the pitch and do his coaching - his background is in coaching - but he's still a manager. He motivates the boys and we've given him two good games already so hopefully it carries on."

Smallwood is back from suspension for the South Yorkshire derby and though his side sit second-bottom, he believes they have what it takes to beat ninth-placed Wednesday. 

"The lads got a good point against a top side of the division [Reading] last time out and put in a really good performance," he said.

"The players [Sheffield Wednesday] have brought in are quality. They've got a big squad; there's a lot of rotation. It's a derby so I'm sure they will be up for it. We were unlucky against them last time [Wednesday claimed a 3-2 win] so hopefully we'll come out on top this time. it'll be a tough game."

Rotherham have taken just four points from a possible 12 while Redfearn's two games have yielded one draw and one defeat -  but 24-year-old Smallwood is sure of an upturn.  

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"It was a tough start to the season," he added. "We had some heavy defeats but the last few games we've put in very good performances. We've won two, drawn one and should have had a point from the game at Brentford.

"It's a strong league, there are no easy games. Top can beat bottom and there are a lot of tight games - one goal either way.

"We're definitely moving in the right direction. We've got the quality in the squad - I think we've shown that over the last few games. I'm sure we will secure our Championship status once again but hopefully we can be pushing towards mid-table."

Watch Rotherham v Sheffield Wednesday from 7pm on Sky Sports 1 on Friday. You can also follow the game with our live blog and watch highlights after the full-time whistle on skysports.com and the Sky Sports apps.