Pearson is targetting a cup run, but is not taking anything for granted telling the Derby Telegraph that "Rotherham are a good side, there is no doubt about that, with one of the best managers outside the Championship. And Don Valley is not the easiest place to go, so we will want to take a lot of supporters there. We want to get through that round though. We want to progress in all competitions."
There are a number of connections between the two clubs. Mark Robins played under Nigel Clough at Burton Albion and new commercial director Steve Coakley used to work for Derby. And right at the top of the tree, Pearson says he has a "good relationship" with opposite number Tony Stewart, who has sought his advice about the Millers' proposed new stadium: "I think he is doing an excellent job there.", Pearson said, "He's trying to build a new stadium and we've had quite a lot of dialogue."