RUFC – Robins defends Skipper

Rotherham United Manager, Mark Robins, has defended his skipper, Pablo Mills, over an incident on Saturday that has left Brentford’s Nathan Elder in hospital with a fracturerd cheek and eye socket.

With former Blades player and now Brentford Manager, Andy Scott, calling for the FA to study the incident, Robins told The Star, ‘While it is distressing to hear about such an injury, I am adament there was no malice and I am shocked and surprised from the reaction by Brentford yesterday.

‘At the time it looked like two players going for the same ball. Pablo didn’t swing his elbow but there was always going to be contact because it was a strong challenge. The referee saw nothing and restarted with a dropped ball. I have looked at the replay and there was no intent there – it was just an unfortunate accident.

‘Everyone at Rotherham United wishes Nathan Elder a speedy and full recovery.’

as a footnote – the commentator on Virgin Media said at the time ‘both players had eyes on the ball’