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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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Romain Esse signs new long-term Millwall deal

Romain Esse has agreed to a new long-term deal with Millwall.

The 19-year-old forward from Lambeth had entered the final year of his current contract, raising concerns that rival teams might snap him up. However, those worries have now been put to rest with Esse’s commitment to stay at The Den.

Esse, who is involved with the England U20 setup, is widely regarded as a future star. His potential has already started to turn heads, and he is expected to attract interest from bigger clubs in the coming years. So far, Esse has scored four senior goals, all of which have come away from The Den—at Middlesbrough, Coventry, Portsmouth, and most recently Bristol City in Millwall’s second game of the Championship season.

Having been on the fringes of the first team for the past two seasons, this campaign is set to be his major breakthrough. Esse has started all three of Millwall’s Championship games so far this season, signaling just how highly head coach Neil Harris values him moving forward.

Millwall do not disclose the length of their long term deals.

Image: Millwall FC

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Lions denied a point as Watford grab late winner at The Den

Millwall’s Championship season began in dramatic fashion with a 3-2 defeat at home to Watford, decided by a late goal in a thrilling encounter at The Den.

The match was marked by an emotional tribute to former Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, who tragically passed away at the age of 26 over the summer. Both sets of players and fans came together to honor his memory before kick-off.

First Half

The Lions started brightly, with Joe Bryan delivering dangerous balls into the box and Tom Bradshaw drawing a foul from Francisco Sierralta, resulting in an early yellow card for the Watford defender. However, Millwall failed to capitalize on the subsequent free-kick, setting the tone for a frustrating afternoon.

Despite Millwall’s strong start, Watford began to assert themselves midway through the first half, with Moussa Sissoko dominating the midfield. The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Edo Kayembe’s looping corner found its way directly into the net, catching Millwall goalkeeper Lukas Jensen off guard and giving the visitors the lead.

Millwall nearly responded immediately, but Bradshaw’s header went wide and George Honeyman’s effort hit the post, with Ryan Porteous clearing the rebound off the line to preserve Watford’s advantage.

Second Half

Millwall’s misfortune continued after the break, as George Saville was denied by the woodwork from a Honeyman free-kick. Then, in the 55th minute, Watford doubled their lead through Giorgi Chakvetadze, who unleashed a stunning 30-yard free-kick that left Jensen with no chance.

Refusing to surrender, Millwall pushed forward, and substitute Aidomo Emakhu injected some energy into the side. Emakhu’s cross in the 74th minute found Duncan Watmore, who fired in off the crossbar to pull one back for the Lions.

The momentum was firmly with Millwall, and they completed their comeback two minutes from time when Watmore scored again, slotting home George Saville’s pass to level the match at 2-2.

However, the home side’s joy was short-lived. In the dying moments, Watford substitute Rajovic headed in a deflected cross to snatch a 3-2 victory for the visitors, leaving Millwall to rue their missed opportunities and defensive lapses.

 

 

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Join Us on Who Are Ya? – Calling All Millwall Fans!

Join Us on Who Are Ya? – Calling All Millwall Fans!

Are you a passionate Millwall supporter with stories to tell? We want to hear from you!At Who Are Ya?, we celebrate the rich tapestry of experiences that make being a Millwall fan so special. Our show features engaging conversations with fans, and we’re excited to invite you to share your journey with us.

What to Expect

During the show, we’ll ask you 20 questions that delve into your time following Millwall. From your first match to unforgettable moments at The Den, we want to capture the essence of what it means to be a Millwall fan.

Check out Past Shows Below.


Why Participate?

  • Share Your Story: Connect with fellow fans and share your unique experiences.
  • Be Part of the Community: Contribute to a growing archive of Millwall fandom that celebrates our shared love for the club.
  • Have Fun: Enjoy a lively conversation and reminisce about your favorite moments.

Interested?

If you’re ready to join us, please reach out! Let us know your availability, and we’ll arrange the details for your appearance on the show.

Drop us an Email at Info@thatmillwallpodcast.co.uk

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Welcome to That Millwall Podcast 2024/25 Championship Prediction League!

Welcome to That Millwall Podcast 2024/25 Championship Prediction League!

Calling all Millwall fans and Championship enthusiasts! It’s time to put your football knowledge to the test and join our exciting 2024/25 Championship Prediction League. As we gear up for another thrilling season in England’s second tier, we’re inviting you to showcase your predictive prowess and compete against fellow supporters.

How It WorksEach week, participants will predict the outcomes of Championship matches. Points will be awarded for correct predictions, with bonuses for exact scorelines. The league will run throughout the entire 2024/25 season, giving you plenty of opportunities to climb the leaderboard.Rules

  1. Points System:
    • 3 points for a correct score prediction
    • 1 point for a correct result prediction (win, lose, or draw)
  2. Predictions:
    • You can submit your predictions up to one hour before kick-off
    • Feel free to change your predictions as many times as you like until the one-hour cutoff
  3. Deadlines:
    • Predictions for each match close one hour before the scheduled kick-off time
    • Late entries will not be accepted, so make sure to get your predictions in on time!

Why Join?

  • Test your Championship knowledge
  • Compete against other Millwall supporters
  • Weekly and monthly prizes up for grabs
  • Grand prize for the overall season winner
  • Bragging rights among the Millwall faithful

Sign Up Now!Don’t miss out on the fun! Registration is now open for the 2024/25 Championship Prediction League. To sign up, simply:

    1. Fill out the registration form below
    2. Create your unique username
    3. You’re all set!

  2. Fill out the registration form
  3. Create your unique username
  4. You’re all set!

 

The new Championship season kicks off on Friday, August 9th, with Blackburn vs Derby and Preston vs Sheffield United headlining the opening fixtures. Make sure you’re registered and ready to submit your first set of predictions before then!

Watch out for the Prediction videos and podcast each week.

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Millwall, where does the blame lie? The Board, Players or is Joe Edwards and his team?

 

Where does the blame lie?

 

In the latest episode of ‘Chat with Chapz’ rather than the usual deep dive into the latest game, ‘Chapz’ looks at the problems both on and off the pitch which have resulted in the lions being 21st in the league with only 4 points keeping us out of the relegation zone.

The debate has rolled on since the damaging defeat on Wednesday night, whether the board, Joe Edwards, the players or a combination of all 3 are the main cause of issues surrounding the club. Chapz points out and goes into detail on;

– The boards lack of nous in the transfer market which has seen us struggling to recoup any transfer funds over recent times and lack of investment in the playing squad

– Joe Edwards and his struggles to implement the style of football he wants to with the group of players at his disposal (and seemingly unable or unwilling to change from that style)

– The worrying statistics that have led to the lions slipping further down the table including one that has gone on over 16 months!

– The worrying form and ability of the playing squad, specifically Jake Cooper, Matija Sarkic and the curious case of Alan Campbell

– The lack of experience in key areas across the club’s management and recruitment teams

Plus, much much more!

The underlying message and tone from Chapz, is one of deep concern and worry that this will be our last season in The Championship, Joe Edwards is perhaps the right manger at the wrong time and there’s substantial evidence and reasoning as to why we are in trouble both on and off the pitch.

Do you agree with Chapz? Is there any one area/individual that deserves take more of the blame right now? Is there any hope left for the lions?

Let us know in the comments below!

 

 

 

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Hornets score stoppage time leveller to deny Millwall- Post Match Report: Watford 2-2 Millwall

Millwall were denied an unlikely three points after a stoppage time equaliser for Watford at Vicarage Road.

 

Just as at Preston in their last away day the Lions started in calamitous fashion. Just five minutes in, It was a shot from Edo Kayembe that was spilled by Bart Bialkowski and Yaser Asprilla was on hand to deflect home the ball for the opening goal.

But just as they did at Deepdale, the Lions hit back. Zian Flemming heading home after Casper De Norre’s cross had been headed on by Tom Bradshaw.

Millwall thought they had sealed the most unlikely of wins in the 85th minute when Wes Harding headed home George Saville’s corner.

But, in stoppage time. Mileta Rajovic broke free and headed past Bialkowksi  to ensure a point for the hosts.

The opening exchanges were tentative. Both sides had spells of possession, Flemming forcing the first save of the day from Watford keeper Daniel Bachmann on his 100th appearance for the home side.

Just two minutes later, the home side were in front.

Millwall have conceded some interesting goals, this being the worst of the lot. Bialkowksi would have been very disappointed with the fact he was unable to hold Kayembe’s shot. Cooper also will feel he should have done better. He should have shielded and allowed his keeper to smother rather than try to clear which lead to Asprilla deflecting it in.

 

Millwall’s response was good. They did not allow themselves to become too frustrated. They settled down and created a good equalising goal.

Danny McNamara combined well with De Norre, the Belgian crossing for Bradshaw to head onto Flemming was well executed. Flemming’s finish was also a smart one. It’s two goals in two away games now for him as well. It’s also four for the season.

After the early excitement the game began to settle down. Both sides having periods of the possession but not causing any real problems. That was until the 26th minute. A Hornets corner was poorly dealt with by the Millwall defence and the ball fell to Asprilla, he was denied by a stunning stop from Bialkowksi.

Vakoun Bayo would have been disappointed he didn’t give the home side the lead before the break, his header from close range failed to test Bialkowksi.

The home side started the second half strongly. Bayo again in the thick of the action. His charging run towards goal ended with his shot deflecting off Wes Harding and past the near post.

Kayeme had caused problems in the first half but this time Bialkowksi was equal to his shot and the home side continued to press for that second goal.

However, Millwall’s ability to stay in the game meant they would always get a chance at some stage. Flemming was presented with a chance, some decent build up play on the left allowed the ball to reach the Dutchman who curled an effort over the bar just after the hour mark.

Two minutes later, a strong run from Norton-Cuffy saw him break into the box, the ball came to substitute Ryan Longman but couldn’t direct his effort on target.

In the 74th minute Matheus Martins was denied by Bialkowski, not in the most convincing way parrying the shot right back into the danger area but the Watford man could not convert the rebound. Imran Loser then pulled a shot wide from Norton-Cuffy’s clearance.

Out of nowhere Millwall took the lead.

For all of Watford’s efforts they were behind. Saville’s corner was headed home by Harding in front of the away end to send the fans into delirium. Moments later Harding should have had his second but his header hit the crossbar as Watford descended into chaos.

However, just as we entered stoppage time Watford got their equaliser. Millwall’s passive defending down the right was exploited. Louza’s cross was headed home by Rajovic after he broke away from Cooper and headed easily past Bialkowksi.

The result see’s Millwall extend their unbeaten away run to five games.

Image: Millwall FC

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Watford 1-1 Millwall LIVE!

Millwall are back on their travels this afternoon as they head to Watford looking to extend their unbeaten away run.

 

The Lions are unbeaten in their last four away games – taking four points from the last two. They head to Watford looking to bounce back after a 2-1 home defeat to Blackburn in midweek.

You can follow all the action with Alex Grace in our live blog.

 

Image: Millwall FC

 

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Alex Grace’s verdict as Gary Rowett departs Millwall.

Gary Rowett has left Millwall after he and the club ‘mutually agreed to part company”

 

The former Birmingham, Derby and Stoke manager leaves the club three days short of his four year anniversary. He was the second longest serving boss in the Championship, behind Coventry’s Mark Robins.

Lions chairman James Berylson said “We greatly appreciate Gary’s efforts throughout his time in charge and he departs with the best wishes of everybody connected with the club. While my time working directly with Gary has been short, I have thoroughly enjoyed all our interactions and feel that he leaves us having enhanced the club’s on-pitch status during four successful years in charge.”

Rowett himself said in the statement. “Firstly, I would like to thank the fans for all their support during my time at the club. The atmosphere they create is truly unique.

 “I have thoroughly enjoyed being manager of Millwall and depart with a feeling that the club has progressed during my tenure. As is sometimes the case in football, the time just feels right to part ways.

 “I would like to thank John Berylson, James, Steve Kavanagh, Alex Aldridge, my backroom staff, and everyone behind-the-scenes for their hard work and support.

 “Finally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the players, who I thank for the blood, sweat, and tears they have put into their efforts. It has been a successful and enjoyable four years.”

Anyone who is not associated with the club or anyone who doesn’t follow Millwall will look at this and think it’s a strange decision.  However, any of us that follow the club will not be surprised. The only thing that has surprised me is the timing of the announcement three days before the end of the International break.

Looking back on the last four years, Millwall have improved. I don’t think there is anyone who will say that Rowett has not taken the club forward. A team that used to be a bit of floater between the Championship and League One are now an established top half Championship team.

 

Rowett took the team on from where Neil Harris left off in 2019. The last four years have been successful. The League finishes of 8th, 11th, 9th and 8th show just how close the Lions have come and how consistent the former Burton manager has made the club.

He leaves with a record of 196 games, 76 wins, 57 draws and 63 defeats. That’s a win percentage of 38.8. You compare that to Kenny Jackett and Neil Harris who both had long stints in charge. They both managed to secure win percentages of over 40 – however, both had two seasons in the third tier.

Rowett will go down as one of Millwall’s most successful managers in the second tier and rightfully so. He has done very well to get the club into play-off contention year after year considering the budget and the standing of the club in the middle of their Championship rivals.

People will ask where did it go wrong? For me, it was the Blackburn game at the end of last season. That took a lot of out not just the team but the manager too. He has not been the same since that game. He has not looked the same, the energy was not the same and the motivation looked to have gone slightly and it only takes that motivation to fall tiny bit for the wheels to come off.

This season started so positively with that win at Middlesbrough on the opening day but things have turned quite a bit since then. The 4-0 defeat to Reading in the League Cup followed by the Norwich game and what happened at Carrow Road left everyone waiting to see when not if there would be a change in the dugout.

In terms of what happens now, the club say “a comprehensive recruitment process is underway.” This is only the sixth time in the Berylson ownership of Millwall that they have had to search for a new manager. If you look at previous five recruitments the club have always taken their time before making these appointments.

Adam Barrett is taking caretaker charge until a new manager is appointed. I would say this decision was taken due to the fact we are now heading into a three game week – a sign that this process may not be that quick and that the club will take their time appoint a new manager.

Image: Millwall FC

 

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That Millwall Podcast Preview – Norwich vs Millwall Upcoming Match

Norwich vs Millwall – Preview by James Kelly

 

Millwall hit the road once again to take on Norwich City at Carrow Road on Sunday lunchtime. In a game live on Sky Sports.

The lions will be desperate to get back to winning ways after a quite frankly pathetic performance at home to Reading which saw them lose 4-0 and crash out of the EFL cup. This being followed up by a very lacklustre performance at the den to Bristol City in a game that was decided by a last minute Matty James winner for the visitors.

 

David Wagner’s Norwich City on the other hand are currently undefeated in the league, winning 2-1 at home to Hull City on the opening day and followed that up with an insane 4-4 draw at St Mary’s against recently relegated Southampton. If Gary Rowett’s side are to get a win at Norwich it will be the first time a Millwall side has won at Carrow Road since November 1968.

 

Ones to watch

 

Gabriel Sara was on the scoresheet last time these 2 sides met, scoring a spectacular goal in a 3-2 win for the canaries back in March. A highly rated winger, the Millwall defence could have their work cut out trying to tame him. Another player the lions will want to keep at bay is Josh Sargent who scored a brace in this fixture at Carrow Road last season.

 

The hosts also recruited striker Ashley Barnes in the summer on a free transfer after he left Burnley and scored against Millwall for the clarets last season in a 1-1 draw. At the den A big target man, Millwall will need to be on their toes to make sure he doesn’t haunt them once again.

 

The difference makers

 

As this game is live on Sky, it would be rude for Tom Bradshaw not to get on the scoresheet. He loves playing in front of the cameras as last season showed. Netting 2 hat tricks against Watford and Sheffield United and a brace against Blackpool. As well as scoring against Luton Town as well. As well as this, Bradders also scored the opener in the last match but unfortunately also scored an own goal as well. Hopefully the latter doesn’t happen on Sunday!

 

Zian Flemming also scored in this fixture last season from a corner and is due to get a goal soon and open his account for the season.

 

The last time we met

An unfortunate Tom Bradshaw own goal, as well as goals from Gabriel Sara and Jacob Sorensen saw Norwich City take all 3 points back to East Anglia in an entertaining 3-2 game. As well as the own goal, Bradshaw opened the scoring for the lions with Zian Flemming pulling the hosts back into the game. But sadly it was too little too late.

What the bookies think

Given the history of this fixture and Norwich’s dominance over Millwall at Carrow Road as well as their start to the season, it’s no surprise that SkyBet have made them the favourites heading into this one. Norwich can be backed at 1/1 with 11/4 if you favour a Millwall win.