Paul Warne hailed his match-winning 'wrecking ball' Richard Wood after Wembley brace
Monday 28 May 2018 10:19, UK
Rotherham manager hailed match-winning centre-back Richard Wood his "wrecking ball" after his Wembley brace earned them promotion.
The Millers captain struck the winner in the 103rd minute to hand his side the victory in the League One play-off final against Shrewsbury, after his initial goal in the first half had been cancelled out by Alex Rodman.
"I call him my wrecking ball," Warne said.
"On set pieces, he's got the desire. He's an old school centre half, he's prepared to break his nose for the team and you need that desire. I thought his desire today in defending and attacking was probably the difference."
Rotherham's victory means the club have bounced back instantly after being relegated from the Sky Bet Championship last season.
Warne replaced Kenny Jackett midway through last season but couldn't turn their fortunes around. However, 12 months on and he's led the club he made over 250 appearances for back into the second tier.
When asked if it was his greatest achievement, he said: "It's up there - my kids are at an age where they know what happening. My dad - bless him - is still hanging in there - I'm blessed to work with my best friends.
"It's been a good day at the office, but I'll have more sleepless nights thinking about playing teams like Aston Villa and others like that.
"I thought the lads were excellent, fairly play to Hursty and Shrewsbury today, it was a right good game and we were toe-to-toe. I'm really proud of the lads and the backroom staff and everyone at the club. It was a horrendous 12 months last year for everyone so for all the fans that made the effort to come down today, it has been worth it."
Warne - formerly a fitness coach - has openly admitted to not knowing whether football management is the job role for him and still isn't completely convinced in his ability, despite the Wembley success.
He added: "I questioned myself - the chairman convinces me I'm a good manager. I question myself every day.
"The dugout is a difficult place to stand, a lonely place to stand. I have humanistic approach to life and football - I like to put smiles on faces. It's been an amazing season."
