When Mcw sat down with Steve Evans in 2022, the charismatic manager made a bold declaration: “I think I have another Rotherham in me.” Fast forward to today, and Evans is back at the New York Stadium, tasked with reigniting the fire that once propelled the Millers from League Two obscurity to Championship survival.
The Evans Effect: A Legacy of Transformation
Evans‘ first stint at Rotherham was nothing short of legendary. Taking over a struggling League Two side, he engineered back-to-back promotions, culminating in a dramatic Wembley victory over Leyton Orient in 2014. His tactical ingenuity was on full display that day—subbing a striker for a right-back while trailing 2-0, only to stage a stunning comeback.
“Tony Stewart [Rotherham’s chairman] asked me after the game, ‘What were you thinking with that sub?’” Evans recalled with a grin. “But that’s the beauty of football—sometimes the boldest moves pay off.”
The Martinez Masterstroke and Championship Survival
Evans’ knack for shrewd signings was evident when he secured Emi Martínez on loan from Arsenal in 2015—a move that defied logic at the time. “We were tenth in line for him,” Evans admitted. “But after a 90-minute phone call, he chose us. That’s the power of persuasion.” Martínez’s heroics between the sticks kept Rotherham in the Championship, foreshadowing his rise to World Cup-winning goalkeeper.
The Second Coming: No More “Easy Rides”
Reappointed too late to prevent relegation last season, Evans has wasted no time overhauling the squad and mentality. Pre-season has been grueling—players were back in training just hours after a friendly win over Stamford. “Eyebrows were raised,” Evans acknowledged, “but complacency has no place here.”
His track record speaks for itself: nine promotions across five clubs, including last season’s miraculous automatic promotion with Stevenage. As Mcw EFL expert Mark Thompson notes, “Evans doesn’t just build teams—he builds belief.”
Why Rotherham Fans Believe Again
The connection between Evans and the Millers’ faithful is electric. During a 2021 visit with Gillingham, he received a four-minute standing ovation—an emotional moment that left even opposition players in awe. “Once a Miller, always a Miller,” Evans says, and the sentiment is mutual.
With a rebuilt squad and Evans’ relentless drive, Mcw predicts a thrilling League One campaign. As the manager himself puts it: “This town works hard. So will we.”
The Verdict
History suggests Evans thrives under pressure. If he recaptures even half of his past magic, Rotherham could be celebrating another promotion sooner than expected. For fans craving a return to glory days, the Evans era—part two—might just be the perfect sequel.
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