Last-gasp Ivanovic header hands Livermore first win in interim charge

Millwall ended their three game losing run with a last gasp 1-0 win over Blackburn Rovers.

Mihalio Ivanovic’s second goal for the club secured a first win since November 6th.

The win moves the Lions up to tenth in the Championship table.

Dave Livermore made two changes to the side that lost 1-0 in Neil Harris’ farewell at Middlesbrough last week. Joe Bryan and Aidomo Emakhu came back into the side in place of Danny McNamara and George Honeyman.

It was a scrappy start with neither side really managing to get control of the football or have any sustained pressure. That was until the home side grew in confidence. Joe Bryan crossed for Romain Esse in the 17th minute but the youngster’s effort was blocked. Two minutes later, he was denied again this time by a superb block from Danny Batth.

Blackburn’s best effort of the first half arrived in the 23rd minute. Todd Cantwell’s corner was headed towards goal by Hyam but deflected off one of his teammates and dropped wide.

The games’ first shot on target arrived in the 35th minute, George Saville’s shot looked to be gong wide but keeper Pears parried it into the path of Langstaff who on the turn placed the ball into the side netting.

Pears was called into action again in the 37th minute, Femi Azeez’s powerful shot was batted away by the keeper, thew rebound came to Japhet Tanganga, his shot came into the path of Langstaff but the effort was cleared off the line by the Blackburn defence.

In the 52nd minute, a great chance came the way of the visitors. The Lions were left short at the back from a corner and Amario Cozier-Duberry was through on goal but a superb 60 yard sprint from Azeez and a stunning recovery tackle stopped the forward having a shot at Lukas Jensen.

Substitutes Andi Weimann and Ryan Hedges combined in the 77th minute but the formers shot was straight at Jensen.

The game looked to be heading towards a goalless draw, Ryan Leonard’s cross was headed in by Ivanovic to send the Den wild and end a three game losing run.

Image: Millwall FC

 

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.

“I feel privileged” says David Livermore as he takes over as interim head coach

Millwall have confirmed that David Livermore will take over as Interim head coach while the Lions search for a new head coach.

Livermore was Neil Harris’ trusted assistant during both his spells as Millwall boss, Harris stepped down from his role as head coach following Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough.

Livermore played over 300 games for the South London club and will now get the chance to serve the club as head coach even if it’s only in the interim.

Speaking about the devlopments Liver ore said to Millwall’s official website

 “I feel privileged to be entrusted with taking temporary charge of the first-team.

“I care deeply about this football club and with the support of Adam, Kevin and Andy, three experienced coaches, our sole aim and focus is preparing the players for this weekend’s League fixture against Blackburn Rovers at The Den.

“We know this squad of players very well and have great relationships with them all. We look forward to working with the team and the support staff to achieve a positive result for the football club this Saturday.”

Millwall’s Director of Football, Steve Gallen added “David and I have held really productive conversations about this interim period and we are grateful to him for stepping into the role as well as Adam, Andy and Kevin for their assistance during this period.”

“He has a great relationship with the current squad and support staff and provides an excellent foundation in the interim whilst our recruitment process for a new Head Coach continues.”

Image: Millwall FC

Lions head to Teeside as Harris bows out

Millwall head to Middlesbrough looking to end a run of five games without a win.

It will be Neil Harris’ final game in charge of the Lions after he announced on Tuesday he would be departing the club after 10 months in charge of his second spell.

Harris’ side have taken 51 points from his 32 games in charge – only Leeds and tomorrow’s opponents Middlesbrough have taken more.

The Lions will definitely be without Jake Cooper, Shaun Hutchinson, Callum Scanlon, Josh Coburn and Dan Kelly who are all sidelined with injuries.

Neil Harris will leave the club after tomorrow’s game at Middlesbrough. (Image: Millwall FC)

Ryan Leonard returns from suspension and is likely to return to the startling lineup.

As for Middlesbrough, they will be without Aiden Morris (knee), Alex Bangura (ACL), Darragh Lenihan (ankle) and Tommy Smith (AT).

The Lions won this fixture 1-0 last season thanks to a goal from Romain Esse.

 

Image: Millwall FC

Millwall 0 Sheffield United 1 – Lions beaten on Harris’ Den farewell

Millwall were unable to give Neil Harris the perfect Den send off as they were beaten 1-0 by Sheffield United.

Rhian Brewster’s first goal for two years ensured Sheffield United returned to the top of the Championship table.

Despite having the majority of the chances the Lions were unable to breakthrough a stubborn Blades defence.

The home side started the game the stronger of the two sides and could have been in front in the tenth minute. George Saville’s deep corner was met by the head of the returning Japhet Tanganga but was a tad too high.

Tanganga came close again on 31 minutes. Firing a shot towards goal which Michael Cooper tipped onto the post as the Lions continued to press.

Duncan Watmore was looking lively, he broke into the Sheffield United box, the ball broke to Saville his shot on the turn hit the far right hand post with Cooper beaten, the  ball then dropped to Mihalio Ivanovic but he smashed the rebound over the bar.

The Millwall pressure continued, Femi Azeez and Romain Esse combined well with the former forcing a save from Cooper.

However, just two minutes later, against the run of the play, the Blades took the lead. Gustavo Hamer got in behind Joe Bryan and crossed Rhian Brewster who netted his first goal since October 2022.

Into the second half, It was still the home side doing the majority of the attacking but without being too threatening. Despite this, it was the Blades that should have doubled their lead. Harrison Burrows’ deflected shot fell to Brewster but he skied his effort.

The second half was fairly uneventful, Sheffield United made it hard for the Lions to create many chances and managed the game out to the final whistle.

It was not the send off that Neil Harris had hoped for, despite this, there was a warm reception for the outgoing head coach at the end of the game as he worked his way around the Den pitch for the final time.

Image: Millwall FC

 

Former Millwall boss gives his verdict on Neil Harris’ departure.

Former Millwall manager Gary Rowett has shared his reaction to the news that Neil Harris will step down as Millwall’s head coach after Saturday’s match against Middlesbrough.

Speaking on Sky Soccer Special, Rowett expressed surprise and praised Harris’s contributions to the club.

“I think it’s a surprise to most people,” Rowett said. “When you look at Neil’s stature at the club, coming back for a second spell as a manager, he’s been there as a player, he’s held in really high esteem by everyone at Millwall. He’s very synonymous with the club.”

Rowett, who succeeded Harris in 2019 after a four-and-a-half-year spell by the Lions legend, acknowledged the significance of Harris leaving on his own terms this time around.

“I think it’s always one of those where you want to go on your own terms, you want to try and protect that legacy,” Rowett explained. “Coming back and keeping the team up in a very difficult position last season and getting the team into a really good position this season.

“For whatever reason, he obviously feels that he’s on a high. He leaves with his head held high because the previous time it probably ended maybe not on his terms, and that’s important. I think he’s done a fabulous job. I think the club are in a position now because of the work he has done, they are able to move forward in a slightly different way. He’s obviously done it for his reasons.”

When asked about the direction Millwall might take under new leadership, Rowett highlighted the club’s focus on sustainability.

“I think they have spoken publicly about being a bit more self-sustainable,” he said. “When owners and people at football clubs say that, it means they want to start producing players of value and have a player trading model. I think that’s something perhaps the club hadn’t done previously under James Berylson’s dad, John. I’ve worked with both people—they are both great people, the family are fantastic. I feel maybe that is the route they might look to go down.”

On whether he would consider a return to The Den, Rowett was noncommittal but lighthearted.

“I think I have managed them once before, I’m sure I have,” he joked.

With Wycombe manager Matt Bloomfield emerging as an early favorite for the role, Rowett weighed in on the potential appointment.

“I think the Matt Bloomfield one is a really difficult one because, obviously, he’s had a really good spell with Wycombe in that division,” he said. “But it’s a tough club to manage, it’s not an easy club to manage. It’s in a great position, and there will be so many people who will want that job. But I think it’s so important to get it right because of the work that’s been done and the foundations that are there. Can you take it on to the next step? That’s going to be the biggest challenge.”

Image: Millwall FC

“It’s my club and always will be” – Neil Harris sends message to fans as he stands down as boss

Neil Harris has confirmed he will step down as Millwall’s head coach, with Saturday’s match against Middlesbrough set to be his final game in charge.

The club announced the news on Tuesday, accompanied by an open letter from Harris to the fans, in which he reflected on his time at the club and explained his decision.

Harris described the choice to leave as a difficult one, given his deep connection to the club.

“This isn’t an easy decision, as everyone knows this club is more than a job to me, it’s my club, and always will be,” he wrote. “Being here always felt like home, as a player, as a captain, and as a manager. We are a family, and it’s been my life for so many years. But I always said when I returned that I would leave when the time felt right, and now is that time.”

Harris returned to the club last season and played a key role in some memorable moments as the Lions who looked destined for League One roared to Championship safety which he said will remain highlights of his career.

“Coming back last season and all the highs that came with it will never be rivalled. It was one of the highlights of my career. We fought together as a team, as fans, and as a united football club,” he said.

He expressed confidence in the squad’s potential for future success, praising the players’ character and determination.

“We have some special characters in this team. They are dedicated and hungry to do well. With the right encouragement and support, I’m sure they can achieve great things,” he added.

Harris extended his gratitude to the club’s staff and owner James Berylson, highlighting the strong relationship they had built during his tenure.

“I would like to thank all the staff at the club for their loyalty and support and especially the owner James Berylson, for welcoming me back. He’s been superb to work with, and I will always be grateful for the great friendship we shared,” he said.

Finally, Harris reserved heartfelt words for Millwall’s passionate supporters, emphasising their unique spirit.

“We have the most passionate fans in the country, and your support has meant the world to me. We are often misunderstood, but the uniqueness of Millwall is also what makes us so special.”

“I wish all of my friends at Millwall Football Club the best for the rest of the season, and I will see you soon.”

Image: Millwall FC

 

Neil Harris to stand down as Millwall head coach

Neil Harris is stepping down from his role as Millwall head coach after Saturday’s clash at Middlesbrough.

Harris returned in February on an 18th month contract to replace Joe Edwards after his four month reign saw the club plummet towards League One.

Harris’ arrival sparked an upturn in form which saw the Lions rise up the table and secure their place in the Championship for another season – they went on to finish 13th ending the season with five consecutive wins.

That form has transitioned into this campaign with notable victories over Leeds United and Burnley.

The Lions have taken 51 points from 31 games since Harris arrived back in SE16 only Leeds and Middlesbrough have taken more in that period.

Chairman James Berylson confirmed the decision was a mutual one in a statement on the clubs website.

“I want to thank Neil for all his efforts since returning to the Club and we will be forever grateful to him for that.

“After discussions with Neil in recent days, he felt it was the right time to step down from the role following the Middlesbrough game and I have accepted his decision.”

“I join everybody associated with Millwall by wishing Neil the very best. He will always be welcome back to The Den as a friend, colleague, and Lion.”

Director of Football Steve Gallen added “We respect Neil’s decision and he departs with the best wishes of everybody at the club. Since I joined in May, I have enjoyed my time working alongside Neil and I thank him for his efforts during this period.

“A comprehensive recruitment process is already underway for a new head coach. The direction we as a club want to head in is clear and the next head coach will play a pivotal role in helping us execute our strategy.”

Image: Millwall FC

Harris critical of key decision as Lions suffer first defeat in ten games.

Millwall’s nine-match unbeaten run in the Championship came to an end as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Coventry City at the Den.

Ephron Mason-Clark’s decisive goal, his second in as many games, came from a Jack Rudoni cross, sealing victory for the Sky Blues.

Millwall head coach Neil Harris expressed his disappointment after the match.

“I’m disappointed with the result, obviously,” Harris said. “Just lacked quality, didn’t we? No problem handling the football at times, but in the transition, we gave it away a few times too cheaply which gave us problems in the first half. In the first half, we were the slightly better team but with no end product and no creativity.”

Harris was quick to acknowledge Coventry’s second-half performance, particularly the impact of their substitutes.

“Second half, Coventry had a good 10-minute spell around the goal and looked dangerous. Their subs made a real difference. They had some really good players coming off the bench. We just looked like a team that was trying really hard and just lacked the moments.”

“That is where people have to get their heads out of the clouds and realise how well we’ve done to achieve what we have so far. And how tough it is for us as a group,” he said. “Right at the end, we put the ball in the box, and one of my young centre-forwards and young wingers are standing outside of the penalty area. It shows a lot of learning we have got in front of us. That’s levels, as we know. That is why you rely on players to have those moments, and we lacked that level today.”

Millwall had a first-half goal controversially disallowed, with Joe Bryan’s effort from a corner ruled out for a foul on Coventry goalkeeper Brad Collins. Harris was critical of the decision.

“I thought the referee got it wrong,” he stated.

The Lions were hampered by the absence of key players, including their first-choice centre-back pairing of Jake Cooper and Japhet Tanganga, as well as Shaun Hutchinson and Romain Esse.

“You miss Romain, you miss Japhet, and you miss Jake Cooper. Three players that probably get in any Championship team,” Harris said. “Just a reminder to people, the thickos, that when you take the three best players out of the team, this is Millwall Football Club.”

 

Image: Millwall FC

Lions’ unbeaten run ended by Lampard’s Coventry

Millwall suffered defeat for the first time in ten Championship matches as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Coventry City.

Ephron Mason-Clark’s second half effort was enough to seal all three points for Coventry.

It also hands new Coventry head coach Frank Lampard his first victory since taking over at the CBS Arena.

A first half that lacked any rhythm and cohesion from either side. Coventry in just their second game under Frank Lampard in patches looked more comfortable on the ball but neither side were able to really threaten.

Millwall thought they had the lead in the 12th minute, Joe Bryan’s curled the ball into the net directly from a corner but the referee ruled that Macauley Langstaff had fouled City keeper Brad Collins.

In the 37th minute, Langstaff and Femi Azeez combined, with the former’s shot going over the bar.

Coventry had the best chance of the half in the 44th minute, Viktor Torp’s cross found the head of Jack Rudoni, his header was tipped over by Lukas Jensen.

There would be one more effort before the break, Duncan Watmore, charged up the pitch and into space but fired his shot over the bar.

The visitors started the second half the stronger side and as the conditions deteriorated thanks to Storm Darragh it was getting tougher.

The visitors took the lead in the 63rd minute. Mason-Clark was on hand to tuck away Rudoni’s cross.

Millwall responded with Joe Bryan setting up Langstaff but, once again the striker failed to hit the target as frustration grew from the home supporters.

Rudoni was causing plenty of problems, in the 75th minute he set up substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante but his effort was blocked by Leonard. in the 86th minute Bobby Thomas was denied by the post following a Rudoni corner.

Despite a late charge on goal the Lions were unable to find an equaliser.