Rotherham United have officially appointed Matt Hamshaw as their permanent manager, signing him to a three-year deal following an impressive stint as caretaker boss. The 43-year-old, who took over the reins after the dismissal of Steve Evans at the end of March, has made a significant impact in his short time at the helm, leading the team to three victories in his first four matches.
Hamshaw, a lifelong supporter of Rotherham and a former player, stepped into the managerial role on a temporary basis, but his success in turning around the team’s fortunes has earned him a full-time position. Under his guidance, Rotherham secured wins against Northampton Town, Blackpool, and Bolton Wanderers, lifting them to 13th place in the League One standings.
Rotherham Chairman Tony Stewart expressed his confidence in Hamshaw, stating, "Matt Hamshaw hasn’t just impressed us with performances on the pitch but also with his ambition and passion for the club off it which comes across clearly every time we speak or he is interviewed by the media." Stewart emphasized Hamshaw's deep-rooted connection to the club, saying, "His association with this football club is well-documented and his knowledge and understanding of what our supporters want to see from their team is unrivalled through his connections as a coach here previously and his lifelong support as a fan."
Hamshaw’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the Millers aim to secure their place in League One. A point against Mansfield Town on Good Friday would mathematically guarantee their survival in the third tier. The club has seen a marked improvement in mood and performances since Hamshaw took charge, a feat not lost on the players or the fans.
Reflecting on his new role, Hamshaw said, "It feels right. The chairman has a saying about a comfy pair of slippers, and it kind of feels like that, even walking into the training ground it felt the same. The DNA of the club runs through the football team but also every department. It feels like I want to get down to the hard work even more so, if that’s possible. It just feels like a good opportunity for both sides."
In his previous coaching roles, Hamshaw has been instrumental in Rotherham's success, helping the club achieve three promotions under former manager Paul Warne in 2018, 2020, and 2022, and adding a fourth promotion with Derby County last season before his return to Rotherham.
Hamshaw's knowledge of the game and his innovative approach have been highlighted as key factors in his appointment. Chief Operating Officer Paul Douglas remarked, "Matt has been given the job because of his innovative football mind, not to mention the galvanising effect he has had on and off the pitch. Three wins out of four against teams with a lot more to play for than us helped as well."
As Hamshaw prepares for his first match as full-time manager against Mansfield, he aims to create lasting memories for the fans and build a team that embodies the Rotherham United spirit. He expressed his desire for the club to play the "Rotherham United way" and ideally achieve Championship football within three years.
"In three years’ time I’d want it to be a team that’s got assets on the pitch, play the Rotherham United way and in a perfect scenario that would be Championship football," Hamshaw stated. He also acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that many clubs in League One feel they belong in the Championship.
Hamshaw's commitment to the club is evident, and he is eager to start planning for the future. Recruitment talks will begin now that he has clarity in his management position, and he intends to bring in his own backroom team this summer to further enhance the club's prospects.
With a clear vision and a strong connection to the club, Matt Hamshaw's appointment is seen as a step in the right direction for Rotherham United. As they look to build on their recent successes and secure their future in League One, fans are hopeful that Hamshaw's leadership will usher in a new era of stability and achievement.
As the Millers gear up for their upcoming fixtures, the excitement surrounding Hamshaw’s permanent appointment is palpable. The local hero, who grew up in Rawmarsh and has been a Millers fan since childhood, is ready to take on the challenge of leading his hometown club and fulfilling the ambitions of its supporters.
