Middlesbrough midfielder Richard Smallwood has returned to Rotherham United on an emergency loan.

The 23-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan with the Millers as they were promoted from League One, scoring a crucial penalty in the playoff final against Leyton Orient.

The length of the loan was not specified by either club, but it is thought that he could sign for Rotherham permanently before the transfer window closes if the two clubs can agree terms.

"I have made it clear to my chairman that if it is at all possible, I would like this to become a permanent signing, and he has assured me he'll do everything in his power to make that happen," Millers boss Steve Evans told the club website.

Smallwood's move is yet to be cleared by the Football League, so he might not be able to feature in tonight's Championship match against Watford.