Millwall will take their time to replace Harris
MILLWALL are in no rush to replace Neil Harris, who quit yesterday after a section of fans turned against him.
The manager left after four-and-a-half years in charge, with Millwall winless in their last seven Championship games. He had been the seventh longest-serving manager in England but the 42-year-old felt it was the right time to walk away.
First-team development coach Adam Barrett has been placed in temporary charge for tomorrow’s home game against high-flying Leeds and it is understood Millwall will not rush into appointing a new manager.
The upcoming international break gives the club two weeks before their next game but they are determined to take their time to ensure they make the right appointment.
Harris did a brilliant job at the Den during his time in charge. He took over in April 2015, following a short spell as caretaker boss, and led the Lions to promotion back to the Championship in 2017, via the play-offs.
The club’s all-time record goalscorer, he guided Millwall to two FA Cup quarter-finals — in 2017 and 2019 — upsetting Premier League teams Watford, Everton twice and Leicester on memorable days at the Den. Huddersfield boss Danny Cowley said last week that Harris deserved a statue outside the Den for what he had achieved.
Millwall stand 18th in the table after a difficult start and Harris has faced criticism from a section of fans, despite establishing the club back in the Championship on one of the smallest budgets in the division. The abuse increased during Wednesday’s 1-1 draw at Luton.
Club chairman John Berylson said: “During his time in charge we have achieved so much and so many of Neil’s greatest moments as manager will live long in the memory of all Millwall fans.
“Neil’s achievements ensure that he is listed alongside some of the club’s greatest-ever managers, furthering his legendary standing at Millwall.
“Alongside his coaching staff, Neil worked tirelessly to establish a culture both on and off the pitch which was befitting of the club’s histor y and heritage and this has undoubtedly been achieved. He has laid tremendous foundations from which the club can continue to build on.”