Rotherham United boss Matt Hamshaw has leapt to the defence of striker Jordan Hugill, insisting the forward still has a major part to play for the club despite mixed reactions from supporters.
The 33-year-old was instrumental in Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Northampton Town, coming off the bench to help spark a turnaround that ended the Millers’ 6-month wait for an away league win.
Hugill’s Impact and Hamshaw’s Backing
Hugill entered the action at half-time with Rotherham trailing 1-0 and immediately changed the game’s momentum. The experienced forward rose to win a crucial header that teed up Joe Rafferty for the 71st-minute equaliser, before Josh Benson’s stunning free-kick sealed all 3 points late on.
Hamshaw praised Hugill’s contribution and hit back at those questioning his role, highlighting the forward’s importance as a physical focal point when used in the right system.
“I’ve said all along, Jordan Hugill’s been fantastic and people – whoever it is – who criticise him, sometimes I don’t get it,” said Hamshaw.
“He’s not an off-the-shoulder striker, he’s a target man who needs a bit of support with him and I’ve said that all along. The work he’s done for the club, the team, and for me personally has been outstanding.”
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The Rotherham head coach made clear that Hugill’s days as a regular starter may be behind him, but described the striker as a game-changing option from the bench.
“Once you get a Sam Nombe or a Martin Sherif with him, we look a different threat,” he added. “He gives us presence, experience and a platform to play from. His attitude has been spot on.”
Midfield Magic and Much-Needed Lift
While Hugill’s cameo turned the tide, the afternoon belonged to midfielder Benson, who produced a superb free-kick to clinch Rotherham’s first league victory on the road since April 8. It was a fitting moment for the former Barnsley man, who endured a difficult spell with injuries across his two seasons at Oakwell before joining the Millers in the summer.
Hamshaw also praised the performance of his midfield trio of Benson, Kian Spence and Dan Gore, with Joe Powell earning credit for his versatility after moving to left wing-back when Reece James was forced off with a tight hamstring.
“He’s a top lad, a top character – the lads love him to bits,” said Hamshaw of Benson. “He’s got quality, and he’s capable of doing that. People said it was a risk because he’s been injured, but I see him in training every day and he wants the ball all the time.”
The victory lifted Rotherham’s confidence after a frustrating start to life back in League One, with Hamshaw stressing the psychological boost of a result built on resilience and belief.
“For the players more than anyone, results always bring confidence,” he added. “We’ve had a few draws and performances that deserved more, so to get this win was massive.”
Writer’s View
Jordan Hugill has always divided opinion, but Saturday offered a reminder of the qualities that have kept him in the game for over a decade.
Hamshaw’s faith feels well placed, and if used as an impact striker rather than a lone front man, Hugill still has plenty to contribute as the Millers look to climb the League One table.
