After a truly dismal season thus far, Rotherham United were desperate to make some signings that would help ignite what seemed an unlikely push up the Championship table.

The Millers, managed by interim manager Paul Warne, had won just three of their opening 24 league games, and sat 10 points adrift of safety after a 2-1 home defeat to Burton Albion.

The club had already signed the likes of Alex Bray, Richard O'Donnell and Ben Purrington in January, and here, we take a look at when the Millers secured the loan signing of Cardiff defender Semi Ajayi.

Having already conceded 52 goals in the league before February, it was clear that the club had to make defensive reinforcements that would help shore them up.

Initially, fans were split about the signing of Ajayi - some were doubting his experience at Championship level, whilst some didn't even know who the player was.

Rotherham fans soon became aware of Ajayi's presence though. Ultimately, the Millers were relegated to League One after a bitterly disappointing campaign, however the centre-half clearly made an impact at the New York Stadium, having been signed up by Warne the season after.

The Nigerian played an integral role in the Millers' immediate promotion back up to the Championship, and has been a regular for Warne ever since.

The 25-year old has been the Millers' standout performer this season, and has scored a sensational six goals in his last five league games - quickly establishing himself as a fans' favourite at the Yorkshire club.

The Millers are better off than a couple of seasons ago, and currently sit one point adrift of safety after a mixed run of form of late.

After scoring a wonder-goal in a gutsy performance against league leaders Norwich City at the weekend, Ajayi and his teammates definitely have the fight to get out of the rut they find themselves in.