ROTHERHAM have announced the return of Steve Evans as manager, less than three hours after sacking Leam Richardson.

Richardson, 44, only lasted four months at the helm and was dismissed two weeks after Rotherham were relegated from the Championship.

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He departed with the club rock bottom of the second tier, 21 points adrift of 23rd-place Sheffield Wednesday.

And they have wasted no time in filling the vacancy as Stevenage boss Evans, 61, has been appointed for a second stint in charge.

A statement from the club read: “Rotherham United are delighted to welcome back Steve Evans as the club’s new first team manager.

“Evans returns to AESSEAL New York Stadium alongside assistant Paul Raynor, with the duo signing contracts which will run until 2027.

“Talks with Steve, Paul and their representatives were opened upon permission being granted by Stevenage and the swift nature in which they were concluded outlines the desire of the club, Steve and Paul to make this move happen.

“Evans will return to the club alongside his Assistant Paul Raynor.”

Evans spent three years at Rotherham between 2012 and 2015, winning 72 of his 173 games.

He secured promotion to League One in his first full season in charge.

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And back-to-back promotions were clinched 12 months later as Rotherham beat Leyton Orient on penalties in the play-off final.

Evans guided the club to survival in their first season in the Championship, before he left in September 2015 with the team in 20th place.

Hours before Evans’ return was confirmed, Rotherham revealed the search for a new manager was underway in their statement about ex-Wigan head coach Richardson’s exit.

It read: “Rotherham United can confirm that the club have parted company with first team Head Coach Leam Richardson with immediate effect.”

They went on to add: “Everyone at Rotherham United would like to thank Leam and Rob for all their efforts and wish them well for the future.

“The search to appoint a new first team manager is already under way, with further communication to follow in due course.

“Rotherham United will be making no further comment at this time.”