Millwall Football Club marked the New Year with mixed results, managing to draw 2-2 against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough, following closely on the heels of their 1-0 loss to Oxford United on New Year’s Day. This rollercoaster of results has left fans reflecting on the team's performance and the potential for improvement under new management.
One standout figure during these matches has been striker Mihailo Ivanovic. Newly appointed manager Alex Neil praised Ivanovic for being “an absolute handful'' on the pitch. Since Neil took over, Ivanovic has become a prominent feature of the starting eleven, appearing consistently and lending his skills to both matches.
Ivanovic, who is only 20, was brought on as Millwall's record signing during the summer transfer window. Despite the team's struggles, he has found the back of the net twice this season, albeit both goals came after he was substituted onto the field. His recent performances, particularly against Sheffield, have been instrumental, showcasing his ability to hold the ball and create opportunities.
“I think the last two games he’s been an absolute handful,” Neil said of Ivanovic's contributions. The manager elaborated on how the presence of the six-foot striker opens up tactical options for Millwall, allowing the team to adopt a more direct style of play. Ivanovic's height and physicality not only pose challenges for opposing defenders but also enable the Lions to regain possession and press forward with more intensity.
Neil mentioned, “It allows us to go more direct because he’s six foot plus.” This tactical shift has been necessary, especially when traditional playing styles have fallen short. While not every aerial challenge is won, Neil emphasized the importance of Ivanovic not merely “flicking things on”—he wants the ball to be played to him where it can be controlled and retained.
Reflecting on the loss to Oxford, which started the year on a less-than-perfect note, Neil's focus on Ivanovic's strengths indicates a shift for the team's dynamics moving forward. The Millwall boss has taken steps to leverage Ivanovic thoroughly, highlighting how their style of play should evolve to utilize his abilities effectively: “We want it to go up and stick up there so we can pick up second balls, and I thought he did it perfectly.”
This approach has sparked enthusiasm among fans and aligns with the club's objective to regain stronger footing within the league. The draw against Sheffield, albeit disappointing for some, allowed Ivanovic to demonstrate his capabilities even more prominently, drawing attention not only to his future with the club but also to the overall progress of Millwall under Neil's new management.
With Alex Neil only recently appointed, the next few games will be pivotal for the Lions. How well they collectively adapt to Neil's philosophy and how effective players like Ivanovic can be, will determine how they fare as the season progresses. For now, fans are hopeful and excited about the potential changes. The results may not have been perfect, but there's certainly room for improvement and growth.
The upcoming weeks will be closely monitored to see how Ivanovic continues to develop as part of the squad, and whether Millwall can transform these performances from draws and losses to victories. Supporters remain optimistic, hoping to see their team climbing the league tables with Ivanovic and Neil at the helm, driving Millwall toward the next challenge.