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Millwall Managerial Shortlist: Spotlight on Alex Neil, Matt Bloomfield, and Steven Schumacher

Millwall Managerial Shortlist: Spotlight on Alex Neil, Matt Bloomfield, and Steven Schumacher
As Millwall FC narrows down its search for a new head coach, three standout candidates have reportedly emerged: Alex Neil, Matt Bloomfield, and Steven Schumacher. Each brings a unique blend of managerial experience, tactical know-how, and a record of success at different levels of the English football pyramid. Below, we break down the strengths, achievements, and potential fit of each contender, along with their tactical preferences, to help Millwall supporters gain insight into who might lead the Lions into their next era.

Alex Neil

 

Background:

 

Alex Neil shot to prominence after guiding Norwich City to Premier League promotion via the Championship Play-Offs in 2015, having already enjoyed a successful stint at Hamilton Academical in Scotland. He later delivered stable Championship campaigns at Preston North End and also managed Sunderland to a League One play-off promotion in 2022.

 

Why He Fits:

 

  • Championship Experience: Few managers are as seasoned at this level as Neil. He understands the rigors of the division, the physical demands, and the strategic adjustments required game to game.
  • Track Record of Promotions: His achievements with Norwich City and Sunderland highlight his ability to handle high-pressure situations and achieve tangible results.
  • Player Development: Neil has demonstrated an aptitude for improving the players he inherits, working within financial constraints and making clubs competitive.

 

Tactics:

 

  • Pragmatic and Adaptable: Neil’s style is pragmatic, often adjusting tactics based on the opposition and his team’s strengths.
    • Formation Flexibility: He commonly uses 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 but switches within games.
    • Counter-Attacking Style: His teams are organized defensively but quick to exploit counter-attacks.
    • Set-Piece Focus: Significant emphasis on both attacking and defending from set-pieces.

 

Matt Bloomfield

 

Background:

 

A former one-club man at Wycombe Wanderers, Matt Bloomfield transitioned into coaching with a modern, player-focused approach. Although still early in his managerial career, his time at Colchester United and more recently returning to Wycombe has seen him adapt and mold his squads effectively, showcasing an increasingly flexible and innovative style of play.

 

Why He Fits:

 

  • Modern, Progressive Coaching Style: Bloomfield’s emphasis on blending direct play with adaptable formations suits Millwall’s current need for tactical evolution.
  • Player Engagement & Culture Building: His history at Wycombe suggests he understands the importance of unity and club identity—qualities that resonate well with Millwall’s passionate supporter base.
  • Long-Term Project Potential: Bloomfield could be a smart “project” manager, someone who grows with the club and helps foster a new era of sustainable success.

 

Tactics:

 

  • Progressive and Player-Centric: Bloomfield is known for his modern, engaging football that fosters player development.
    • Flexible Formations: He typically employs a 4-3-3 or 3-4-3, with a focus on high pressing when possible.
    • Possession-Based Play: Encourages purposeful ball retention to create space and opportunities.
    • Youth Integration: Promotes a style that supports creativity and expression from young players.

 

Steven Schumacher

 

Background:

 

Steven Schumacher gained recognition during his time at Plymouth Argyle, stepping out of Ryan Lowe’s shadow to lead the club to the League One title with 101 points in the 2022/23 season. Despite a challenging tenure at Stoke City, Schumacher remains a young, tactically astute coach who has proven his ability to organize and motivate teams in competitive environments.

 

Why He Fits:

 

  • Proven Winner at League One Level: His accomplishments at Plymouth Argyle show he can handle promotion battles and title races, making him well-prepared for a top-half Championship campaign.
  • Tactical Flexibility & Attack-Minded Play: Schumacher is known for implementing a dynamic, modern style. For Millwall, that could mean more entertaining, incisive football moving forward.
  • Motivated to Succeed at Championship Level: Having faced setbacks at Stoke, he’ll be eager to prove himself, bringing fresh ideas and renewed determination.

 

Tactics:

 

  • Dynamic and Attack-Minded: Schumacher’s approach is energetic, focusing on possession and creating scoring chances.
    • High Pressing: His teams press high to win the ball back in advanced areas.
    • Formation Versatility: Often opts for a 3-4-2-1 or 4-3-3, using width to stretch defenses.
    • Tactical Fluidity: He adjusts tactics mid-game to exploit weaknesses or counter strategies.

Considering Millwall’s Future

 

Each of these three candidates represents a viable direction for Millwall. Neil offers Championship experience and a steady hand, Bloomfield promises a long-term, culture-driven project, and Schumacher brings a winning pedigree and progressive thinking. Their tactical approaches could provide Millwall with the blend of pragmatism, innovation, and attacking flair needed to compete in the Championship. Ultimately, the club’s final choice will hinge on aligning with Millwall’s evolving ambitions—whether that’s building a stable platform for gradual progression, aiming for immediate top-half challenges, or cultivating a longer-term identity centered around youth development and attacking football.

 

Whichever direction the Lions choose, it’s clear the next head coach will have a significant role in shaping Millwall’s future—both in the Championship and beyond.
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Deadline Day LIVE!

It’s Deadline Day!

We will be following all the stories from Deadline Day as Millwall and all the clubs across the country look to get their deals done and completed.

Sheffield Wednesday eye Holgate 

Millwall’s upcoming opponents this weekend are reportedly targeting a move for Everton defender Mason Holgate. The 26-year-old was initially set for a transfer to French side Lyon, but that deal has seemingly collapsed. According to Sky Sports Danny Rohl’s side have now entered discussions with Everton to bring Holgate in.

If he is signed he will not be able to play against the Lions tomorrow as the registration deadline was at midday.

Burnley Fail in Bids for Morgan Whittaker

Burnley are still actively seeking to bolster their squad before the transfer window closes, but their pursuit of Morgan Whittaker seems to have hit a dead end. Plymouth Live reports that Plymouth Argyle have no intention of selling Whittaker due to the limited time left to find a replacement. The Clarets initially made a loan offer with an obligation to buy, which was rejected. A subsequent bid for a permanent transfer was also turned down by Plymouth.

Tom Cannon Joins Stoke

Stoke City have secured the services of Tom Cannon on loan from Leicester City. Cannon, who had a successful loan spell at Preston last season, finds himself down the pecking order at Leicester and will look to make an impact with Stoke in the Championship.

What’s Happening Around the Country?

  • Raheem Sterling: The Chelsea winger has received offers to leave the club, with Arsenal emerging as a potential destination. Negotiations over personal terms are ongoing.
  • Ivan Toney: Brentford’s star striker is close to completing a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli for £40 million.
  • James Ward-Prowse: The West Ham midfielder is on the verge of joining Nottingham Forest on loan, bringing his experience to Forest’s midfield.
  • Jay Stansfield: The young forward, who impressed on loan at Birmingham City last season, is in talks to return to the Blues on another season-long loan. He recently scored against Birmingham in the EFL Cup.

Latest on Aidomo Emakhu

Millwall are considering loaning out Aidomo Emakhu to ensure the young Irishman gets regular game time. The decision hinges on whether the Lions can bring in another winger before the transfer window closes. Manager Neil Harris didn’t rule out a loan move after the recent match against Leyton Orient, leaving the situation fluid depending on Millwall’s incoming transfers.

10:45 Update

  • Mihailo Ivanovic: The Serbian striker is undergoing a medical ahead of his club-record move to Millwall from Vojvodina. The deal, expected to be around €3 million, is set to be finalized this afternoon.
  • Josh Coburn: Millwall are close to completing a season-long loan deal for the Middlesbrough striker. Negotiations have been ongoing, with Middlesbrough needing to secure a replacement first, reportedly Leicester’s Tom Cannon. Coburn’s move could be finalized soon.
  • Millwall’s Transfer Activity: The Lions are also working on securing two additional signings before the transfer deadline.
  • Zian Flemming: Burnley’s pursuit of Millwall’s Zian Flemming continues, but the Lions have already rejected one bid. This is a situation to keep an eye on as the day progresses.
  • Potential Loan Departures: Millwall may see some players leave on loan, depending on how the rest of their transfer business unfolds today.
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Serbian striker set to break Lions transfer record

Millwall are poised to break their transfer record with the signing of Serbian striker Mihailo Ivanovic from Vojvodina.

The 19-year-old, who has risen through the youth ranks at Vojvodina, is highly regarded in Serbia.

Ivanovic spent time on loan with Italian side Sampdoria in 2022, making one senior appearance but featuring prominently for their youth team, where he scored six goals in 39 appearances. Back at Vojvodina, he has netted ten goals in 48 appearances, showcasing his potential as a rising talent.

According to reports from SportKlub, the fee for Ivanovic could be around €3 million, which would set a new club record for Millwall.

The need for attacking reinforcements has become even more urgent following a significant setback on Tuesday night when Tom Bradshaw was forced off with a serious hamstring injury. Manager Neil Harris confirmed the severity of the injury, making the acquisition of more firepower a top priority.

In addition to Ivanovic, Millwall are also in ongoing talks with Middlesbrough over a potential loan deal for Josh Coburn, who is expected to leave the Riverside before Friday’s transfer deadline.

Image: Millwall FC

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“The Joe Edwards Debate,” “Millwall’s Relegation Battle”

 

Joe Edwards: Can He Salvage Millwall’s Season, or Is a Change Desperately Needed?

Millwall Football Club are on the brink of relegation. No one at the club wants to admit it, no one thought it could happen and those who hold the power at the club certainly did not plan on it when they appointed Joe Edwards as head coach back in November.

However, the Lions have picked up just 1 point from their last 7 games and have slipped to within just a single point of the relegation zone and the spotlight is firmly on Edwards.

On paper, the move to appoint Edwards whilst a brave one, looked to be a breath of fresh air, out with the old, moving in a new direction, all the typical cliches when this type of appointments are made in football. A young up and coming coach, known for his work behind the scenes at Chelsea, working along-side the likes of Mourinho and Conte, working with the brightest young talent the country has to offer at under 20 level.

Fast forward just 4 months and his job as head coach is severely under threat, with pressure mounting and growing numbers within the fan base calling for him to be sacked, it’s looking it could all end in disaster for Edwards in his first job as ‘the main man’.

Our lads at That Millwall Podcast remain divided over the sacking of Joe Edwards; is it a good decision and have put together the ‘For’ and ‘Against’ arguments…

YouTube Show: Is Joe Edwards the Right Man for Millwall?

Reasons to Replace Joe Edwards

Alarming Form
The club started the new year with a win at Bristol City, which was the 3rd win a row. Sitting 15th in the table and in fact closer to the play-offs (8 points) than the bottom 3 (10 points) things seemed to have settled down for Edwards and the squad. However since then, it’s been a sorry state of affairs. No win in 8 games (inc the FA Cup tie v Leicester), 1 point from a possible 21, 4 league goals scored, 15 conceded…

The list of unwanted stats are racking up for Joe Edwards and when you add into the mix his current win percentage as Millwall manager is 21.05% and ranks as one of the worst in the clubs recent history:

Millwall Head coach Joe Edwards standing on the pitch at the den. with stats regarding the managers win percentages.

Steve Lomas: 25%
Ian Holloway: 22.58%
Joe Edwards: 21.05%
David Tuttle: 18.18%
Nigel Spackman: 16.67%
(Stats from Millwall history)

The faith in Edwards’ ability to turn this situation around is fading quickly and something has got to give.

 

 

 

 

YouTube Show: Where does the blame lie – Millwall Board, Millwall Players or Joe Edwards and his Backroom team?

Lack of Managerial Experience (Especially in a relegation dogfight)
Edwards is facing something he has never had to previously in his career – a relegation battle, with a group of players clearly struggling to carry out his instructions and tactics. Whilst it may be harsh to suggest the players are just not listening to him the fact, he has been unable to galvanise the players over the last 6 weeks is incredibly worrying. The lack of confidence and self-belief appears to be dwindling by the week throughout the club and as the man responsible for trying to set the team up to go out and fight, Edwards is looking to be a little out of his depth and does not have he experience to fall back on that other managers in the Championship have and possibly more importantly the support staff around him who could help him when he needs it the most.

YouTube Show:Millwall 0 – Sheffield Wednesday 2 – Post Match Reaction With Chapz

Tactical Stubbornness and a lack of ‘Plan B’
Joe Edwards has his way of playing, his set up, his style and that is why perhaps he was brought in, in the first place however, it’s just not working. The players at his disposal were predominately brought in by previous manager Gary Rowett to play a certain style and brand of football, which for most parts they were good at. Whilst it might seem admirable that Edwards is trying to get them to play better football and a passing/possession based game, the reality is they just aren’t capable of sustaining it for 90 minutes and are repeatedly being caught out. Yes, the argument that the players are letting him down is a valid one but most people who go to games or watch us on TV can see the players are not good enough to play the way he is asking them to but nothing ever changes and it comes across to some that it’s just a stubbornness that he will play his way regardless. Even in game, when its clearly not working, the game plan never really changes until its too late (which is often when we’re behind and we shift to a back 4) and most teams in this division seem to have just worked us out and ready to exploit us.

YouTube Show:Today’s Match Was So Bad, Even Millwall Stopped Giving Twitter Updates 

Reasons to Keep Joe Edwards

Inherited Troubles – both on and off the field
When Joe Edwards stepped into the spotlight at Millwall, he entered the club off the back of a tough series of events;
Missing out on the play-offs vs Blackburn
The sad passing of John Berylson
The parting of ways with long term manager Gary Rowett

Whilst we could never understand the full extent of the damage those 3 events caused behind the scenes at Millwall, it was clear that something wasn’t right and Joe Edwards took the decision to be the man to try and lift the club and get everything back on track, which was a brave decision considering it was his first venture in club management (albeit under the head coach title).

Add to this, he inherited one of the oldest squads (based on average age) in the division who had been on a terrible run of form over the previous 7 months (spread across 2 seasons) it must have daunting even if that wasn’t the message he was giving out at the time and it perhaps was always going to take a long time for the ‘Joe Edwards era’ to really start to get going and 4 months perhaps isn’t the right time frame to judge him on.

There are also issues away from the football, for example the delay there appears to be in getting the training ground plans moving, the issues with the sponsors that has been rumoured to have gone through to court – whilst they may not be directly issues Joe can deal with, they do hinder the running of the club and have financial implications.

Limited Resources
We can’t imagine that Joe Edwards was promised a huge war chest when he took the job and its likely that the club (and fans alike) expected him to use his knowledge within the youth set up and links back to Chelsea to bring in additions to the squad. Whilst we never went ‘shopping’ at Chelsea in January the players that come in, whilst they haven’t set the world alight, have shown the vision and ideas that Joe Edwards had (younger, pacy, athletic etc) but his hands were still tied massively in terms of funds and limited to players who perhaps we’ve only managed to attract due to previous injuries preventing them from making it at their parent clubs. Its hard to tell but would other managers have been able to do much better in the transfer market? Also, should Edwards stay on as head coach, there is a chance that come the summer when the overhaul will really take place, Edwards could attract several young players to come in and really freshen up the squad.

The Pressure is Mounting! Millwall Face a String of Make-or-Break Fixtures:

Feb 24th: Away to Southampton

Mar 2nd: Home against Watford

Mar 5th: Away to Blackburn Rovers

Mar 9th: Home against Birmingham City

Mar 17th: Away to Leeds United

Mar 29th: Home against West Bromwich Albion

Joe Edwards is in a make-or-break situation. Should Millwall accept these tough circumstances, wait for the tide to turn and hope Edwards can keep the club in The Championship? Or has the time come for the club to pull the trigger in a last ditch attempt to avoid the disastrous drop to League One?

 

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Millwall Football Club will be ground sharing with their arch-rivals West Ham United next season, should they secure promotion to the Premier League.

There are rumblings in the football world that two major London clubs, Millwall and West Ham United, may share a stadium for the upcoming 2023/24 season pending certain conditions. While both clubs have not made any official statements, sources familiar with the situation suggest that discussions are currently ongoing, with the Newham Council being notified. However, a spokesperson from the council has stated that the discussions are still in the early stages, and any decision would need to go through a full council meeting before being confirmed.

UPDATE: It has now been heavily rumoured from a source that Millwall Football Club will be ground sharing with their arch-rivals West Ham United next season, should they secure promotion to the Premier League. The decision comes as a result of Millwall’s current stadium, The Den, failing to meet the strict criteria set out by the Premier League for top-flight stadiums.

The rivalry between Millwall and West Ham is one of the most intense in English football, with a long history of violence and animosity between the two sets of fans. Matches between the two clubs have been marred by incidents of hooliganism, with clashes between supporters often leading to arrests and injuries.

The possibility of a ground share has sparked a variety of reactions from different groups, including fans, pundits, local residents, businesses, and law enforcement officials. Some view it as an exciting opportunity for both teams to coexist in a world-class facility, while others see it as a recipe for disaster due to the historical animosity between the two sets of supporters.

Detective Chief Inspector Joseph King, who heads the Football Unit of the Metropolitan Police, has expressed concern over the potential ground share, citing the safety risks involved. He emphasized the need for a careful consideration of the welfare of supporters and the public. Local residents and businesses have also expressed their concerns, fearing increased traffic congestion, noise pollution, and anti-social behaviour in the area.

On the other hand, supporters of both clubs have expressed their excitement at the prospect of the two rivals playing in the same stadium. Some believe that it could lead to a stronger sense of community and a better matchday experience, as fans from different backgrounds come together to support their teams.

Ground sharing is not a new concept in English football, with many clubs opting to share a stadium for various reasons. Charlton Athletic and Crystal Palace were the first teams to share a ground, However, in the case of Millwall and West Ham, the stakes are higher due to their intense rivalry.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to proceed with a ground share should be based on a thorough assessment of its impact on all stakeholders. Both clubs will continue to focus on their football and their respective goals for the season, while the possibility of a ground share remains a topic of buzz and speculation in the football world. Stay tuned for further updates on this story.

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Millwall could be set to lose Benik Afobe this Transfer Window.

Millwall could be set to lose Benik Afobe this month according to @EmeryKabongoM on twitter.

The former Stoke man signed for the club on a one year deal in the summer transfer window after spending last season on loan in SE16.

Emery Kabongo is reporting that Afobe will leave London for UAE club Hatta Club.

Another source is also reporting that a medical will take place today at Hatta club (Wednesday).

ThatMillwallPodcast has contacted both Millwall Football Club and Afobe’s representatives for comment.

Image Millwall Fc.