Jamie Lindsay closing in on long-awaited Rotherham United return

Jamie Lindsay has been out of action since breaking down in the summer with achilles trouble but is now working out on the grass at the club's Roundwood training complex and eyeing a long-awaited return to the first-team frame.

The 28-year-old is being put through individual outdoor sessions before a return to full group training, which is the last step before being in contention to make his Championship comeback.

“The early signs are really positive,” manager Matt Taylor said. “For the first time in probably a few years Jamie's got no pain in his achilles. It's something he's played with consistently.

“It got to a point in pre-season where he couldn't continue. It was unmanageable. There was probably a small tear in there.”

Lindsay came to AESSEAL New York Stadium from Ross County in July 2019 and has racked up 139 appearances on his way to winning two League One promotions, and Papa Johns Trophy silverware and helping Rotherham hang on to their Championship status last term.

“He is finally back out on the grass after being out for a substantial period,” his boss said. “What a period it's been for him. Tendon injuries are so, so difficult. His situation has been made more difficult for us by the fact that his return has taken a little bit longer than we expected.”

Lindsay had been closing in on rejoining training earlier in the season before being sidelined again. For that reason, the Millers will put no pressure on him as he works his way towards full fitness.

“We got to this point last time but couldn't push him towards any intense work,” Taylor said. “He kind of broke down at a certain point of his recovery, We won't rush him back.

“He's got no issues at the moment in that achilles area. However, he's been going at a low-level speed and intensity. That will start ramping up.

“We've missed him greatly - not just his game and his tenacity but his personality as well. He's someone who holds us together.”