Rotherham United manager Alex Bruce has insisted that performances alone will determine who starts in goal against his former club Salford City this week. The Millers have conceded seven goals in their opening five League Two games, placing scrutiny on goalkeeper Ted Cann. Bruce, who was part of Salford's coaching staff last season, faces a selection dilemma with 20-year-old Brentford loanee Julian Eyestone waiting for a senior debut.
Defensive concerns
Bruce acknowledged his side must improve at the back after a leaky start to the campaign. "We'll have to wait and see," he said. "The goalkeeping position is the same as any other position." He wants his defensive unit to earn their place through their displays, a message aimed at the entire back line. The manager also advised his players to ignore social media criticism, which has been directed at Cann. "There's such a huge platform to throw abuse," said Bruce, a former defender for Leeds, Hull, Sheffield Wednesday and Huddersfield.
Salford's form
Visitors Salford City arrive at the New York Stadium in 15th place, having taken six points from their first five matches. Their recent form shows two consecutive wins, including a 1-0 victory over Port Vale last time out where Josh Powell scored the decisive goal. The Ammies will be looking to extend that winning run and climb the table, with the current standings available on our standings page.
Potential new signing
In other news, Rotherham are exploring a move for free agent defender Dominic Iorfa. The centre-back, whose contract with Sheffield Wednesday expired in the summer, has been training with Bruce's squad. Adding defensive reinforcement is a clear priority for a team that has let in too many early goals. Bruce's immediate focus, however, is on securing a positive result against a familiar opponent. The full squad details for both teams can be found on our squad page. The match kicks off at Rotherham's home ground as both sides aim for three valuable points.
