The experienced James, 32, has played for eight clubs across his 13-year career, and suffered relegation from the Championship with Wigan in 2017.
“Whenever you’re in these sorts of situations, I’ve had it before, you speak as a group of players as you know that ultimately you’re in this,” he said.
“You’ve got to make sure the lads that have had this before and been in this position before can help some of the younger players.
“You know its difficult, confidence can be low, but ultimately confidence is a big thing in football, and you have to be able to get beyond that.
“Every player is needed. With injuries, players that thought they might not have opportunities will now have opportunities. It could be at a crucial period of the season, and so it’s about making sure everyone is ready when it happens.”
Rotherham manager Matt Hamshaw admitted to the BBC last month that he had found the job “harder than he envisioned” after taking over from Steve Evans in April 2025.
The fans have also been voicing their disappointment over recent performances, and James conceded the buck stops with the players.
“You’re the ones out there on the pitch, you’re the ones who are responsible. You’ve got to make sure you’re giving everything you can, and you’re taking ownership,” he said.
“You’re in the spotlight, but as professional footballers that’s what you’re there to do. No matter the circumstances, you’ve got to stand tall and be ready to give everything you’ve got.”
