Rotherham United have added former Manchester United full‑back Brandon Williams to their pre‑season training, hoping the 25‑year‑old can revive his stalled career.

Who is Brandon Williams and why is he training with Rotherham?

Williams spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Norwich City after rising through United’s academy. He made his senior debut for the Red Devils in a Carabao Cup tie in September 2019 and featured 36 times that season. After a mixed spell at United, a loan to Ipswich Town and a brief, injury‑marred stint at Hull City, he has been club‑less since February 2024. Rotherham’s new head of football, Steve McClaren, invited him to train, giving the Millers a low‑cost option on the left flank.

How does his arrival fit Rotherham’s current situation?

The Millers sit 23rd in League One with 41 points, a record of 10 wins, 11 draws and 25 losses from 46 games, and a recent form of LDLWL. Their defence has leaked 71 goals while scoring 41, leaving them 30 behind the leaders Lincoln. Adding a player with Premier League pedigree could tighten the back line and offer a morale lift after a 3‑2 defeat to Wycombe on 2 May 2026.

What does Williams need to prove?

Williams must show he can stay disciplined off the pitch after a suspended 14‑month prison sentence, a driving ban and community service stemming from a high‑speed crash. He told Hull Live that he has learned from his mistakes and is focused on football. On the training ground, he will need to demonstrate fitness, positional awareness and the ability to support attacks without exposing the defence.

What could be next for the defender?

If he impresses during the early pre‑season programme, Williams could feature in Rotherham’s opening friendly against non‑league side Parkgate on Friday. A strong performance may earn him a short‑term contract, giving the Millers a versatile left‑back and giving Williams a platform to rebuild his reputation in English football.