Larne Manager Rooney Praises Impact of Millar’s Return

Larne manager Nathan Rooney has expressed his appreciation for the “lift” that midfielder Leroy Millar’s return to the squad has brought, following a significant absence due to injury. Millar initially joined Larne from Ballymena United in the summer of 2022. The player, previously with Ballymena, entered the game as a substitute and contributed his team’s fourth goal during their 5-0 victory against Annagh United in the BetMcLean Cup quarter-final on Wednesday evening. Millar played a crucial role when Larne achieved their inaugural league titles and was recognized as the Irish Premiership Player of the Year for the 2022-23 season. However, he had been sidelined since April due to a groin injury. Regarding his impactful returning player, Rooney stated, “Everything that he gives you, even before he steps on the pitch – you get the lift, you get the presence.” He added, “It’s now getting some more work into Leroy and making sure he’s up to speed over the coming weeks and hopefully we can get him to peak over the busy Christmas period.” The newly appointed Larne manager commenced his role with a 1-1 Premiership draw against Cliftonville. He anticipates a demanding fixture list for the club in the upcoming weeks, encompassing various competitions, including outstanding league matches, two additional Conference League games, a League Cup semi-final, and a County Antrim Shield final. The former Bruno’s Magpies manager elaborated on his strategy for the position, stating, “We’ve added, but we’ve also continued to build on the great progress made as well.” He further commented, “We’re clear, we’ve got loads of clarity going on with our prep and obviously we’ve just got to add a little bit more to our game in different ways.” Rooney emphasized, “We need to keep that feelgood factor around the building as we transition slowly. The team will look slightly different over the course of the next two windows, maybe the style and the intensity, but if things aren’t broken then continue with it and if they are then bring your own way.” Rooney has expressed admiration for several young players within his squad, including Dylan Sloan and Matty Lusty, the latter of whom scored a hat-trick in the win against Annagh. He remarked, “They’re embracing a new voice, different words of terminology in how the training structure looks and obviously the boys have got good careers ahead of them.” Rooney continued, “They’ve got to be a sponge, take on as much information and input new things into their game. “That’s the mindset that we’ve got and I remind the players if they add to their game they’re going to be better players in the long run.” Larne is scheduled to play Loughgall away on Saturday, aiming to improve their current ninth-place standing and reduce the 16-point gap separating them from league leaders Linfield, against whom they hold four games in hand.