Rotherham United defender Reece James says everyone needs to “stay positive” as they battle to stay in the league.
The Millers have lost five of their past seven games and sit one spot behind safety and three points behind safety with 11 games remaining.
advertise
“We need to stay as positive as possible,” James told BBC Radio Sheffield.
“We’ve got to do better in the situation we’re in. We’re working hard, for one, but we know we’ve got to get three points and we’ve got to take control of that. We need more attacking intent, putting more bodies in the penalty area can cause chaos.”
The 32-year-old James is experienced, having played for eight clubs in his 13-year career and was relegated with Wigan Athletic in 2017.
“Whenever you’re in a situation like this, and I’ve been in it before, you speak as a group of players because you know eventually you’re going to be in this situation,” he said.
advertise
“You have to make sure the lads who have been through this before and are in this position can help some of the younger players.
“You know it’s difficult and confidence can be low but ultimately confidence is a big thing in football and you have to be able to rise above that.
“Every player is in need. Players who thought they might not have a chance because of injuries are going to get one now. This could be a critical time in the season, so make sure everyone is ready if that happens.”
Rotherham manager Matt Hamshaw admitted to the BBC last month that he found the job “tougher than he thought” after taking over from Steve Evans in April 2025.
advertise
Fans have also expressed disappointment with recent performances, and James has acknowledged the players’ dissatisfaction.
“You’re the one on the field, you’re the one in charge. You have to make sure you do the best you can and take responsibility,” he said.
“You’re in the spotlight, but that’s what you do as a professional football player. No matter what the situation is, you have to step up and be ready to give everything you’ve got.”
Third-placed Bolton travel to Lancashire on Saturday, where the Millers lost 2-1 after conceding a goal in the 93rd minute.
advertise
“They are a dangerous team and bring a lot of threats in different areas of the court, especially forward,” James said.
“They are in good form at the other end of the table but that brings pressure. We have our battles and we have to make sure we do our bit.
“This season’s league is very intense and it’s full of surprises. We have to continue to go about our business and make sure we stay focused on our end result, which is to try to stay at this level.”
