Paul Warne talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United boss Paul Warne insists he is relishing the opportunity to go toe-to-toe with his old club Wigan Athletic, as the Millers prepare to lock horns with Sky Bet League One’s leading club at the DW Stadium on Saturday.
Warne, who represented the Latics during his playing career, believes that Paul Cook’s current side are befitting of their place at the head of the third tier pack, but says his players will be looking to pose a threat of their own this weekend.
“I think they're the outstanding team in the league,” he told www.themillers.co.uk.
“They're top of the league now so there's no massive shock there and they've got quality of players throughout the team but that doesn't mean that we can't go there toe-to-toe and try and get something.
“That's exactly what we are going to do. We're going to set up to try and win and we're going to have to have an eye on what their strengths are and try and nullify them as best we can, but also have an attacking threat which I think we've done in every game.”
Whilst the Millers manager reiterated that he is well-aware of the talent that the Latics have at their disposal, he was quick to point to his own side’s qualities and believes their goal threat will give Cook and his staff something to think about prior to their arrival in Lancashire.
“There's not many games that we haven't scored in this year and in all due respect, you always think of the opposition, but I know they'll be thinking about us and treating us with respect, knowing that on our day we're a formidable side,” Warne continued.
“They have got some quality throughout the team, understandably so, and whilst it's not nailed on, they've put themselves in the best position to get automatic. Hopefully after this weekend I can wish them good luck.”
Meanwhile, Warne has once again called on what he expects to be another strong away following to get behind their side in what will be a stern test of their abilities.
“It will be a tough game but that's what football is all about,” he added.
“Challenges in life you have to take head on and we'll look forward to the game and I think the lads will want to play in it.
“It'll be a pretty good atmosphere there because the Wigan fans will be happy that they're top of the league and we'll obviously take a good following and our away fans are excellent especially.”