Blackburn Rovers told what to expect from 'powerhouse' Lewis Miller

Yahoo

3 days ago

What type of player is Lewis Miller? What are his strengths and weaknesses?
He's a powerhouse, first and foremost. He was originally signed as a 21-year-old right-back from A-League side Macarthur FC, and gradually established himself in the first team under the last two managers. Last season, injury to other centre-backs prompted David Gray to move him into Hibs' back three, as part of a 3-4-1-2 formation.
He has the attributes to play both as a full-back/wing-back and as a centre back. Miller is quick and strong, likes to get forward, and has proven an occasional goal threat. As a centre-back, he can draw on his full-back experience to offer something a little different - namely being comfortable stepping into advanced areas with the ball, underlapping the full-backs or defending out wide. His aggressiveness and recovery pace were key to Hibs' system.
He still has plenty of development to go, however. Concentration was an issue at times, although this improved last season. He can be a little erratic in possession, and has been prone to being caught on the ball in dangerous areas. Under a good coaching team last season, however, he made significant strides, and Gray described him as 'very coachable'.
What is the Hibs fans' view on losing him?
I suspect he might be one of those players whose true value only becomes apparent after they've gone. Miller has split opinion, albeit I'd say the verdict on him by the end of last season was majority positive.
Most supporters probably recognise that given his contract situation, this is the right time to sell. But I think it will become apparent that, despite his inconsistency, Miller's mix of attributes will be difficult to replace, and even his current doubters will soften on him.
Has there been a lot of interest in him this summer?
Yes, I believe that as well as Blackburn, Charlton Athletic were also interested. His physical profile, potential for development, and contract situation will have alerted plenty of clubs.
Do you think a fee of around £1m is fair? Does it represent value for either club?
I think so. Hibs are making a significant profit on a player who they could have lost for nothing in June were it not for the one-year extension option in his contract.
Given he would have been free to sign a pre-contract elsewhere in January, I feel the club will be happy to agree a seven-figure package.
Do you think he'll adapt to the physicality and intensity of the Championship?
Yes. Miller's game is based on his pace and power, so I'd be surprised if he struggled with that side of the game. The Scottish Premiership has its own unique physical demands, and I've seen players coming in the opposite direction from the Championship struggle with it. Miller has other areas to improve on, but he should be able to handle himself physically.
What is his character like from your dealings with him?
He's not short on confidence. Some players shrink a little when they come to speak to the press but Miller had a laidback demeanour and was always happy to chat at length about anything he was asked. You can see that confidence on the pitch, too. He was never afraid of a confrontation or some back and forth with opponents.