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23 December 2024

Millwall Eyes Alex Neil As New Manager Amid Transition

Former Stoke City boss set to take the reins as the Lions seek stability following Neil Harris departure.

Millwall Football Club is nearing the appointment of Alex Neil as their new manager following the departure of Neil Harris earlier this month. According to journalist Alan Nixon, Neil is poised to secure the managerial role after extensive interviews conducted at The Den, marking his return to Championship football.

The Lions, as Millwall is affectionately known, have been without a permanent manager since Harris left the club amid three consecutive defeats. Despite this challenging exit, Harris had previously transformed the team, steering them clear of relegation danger during the latter part of last season and leaving them mid-table at 13th place when he departed.

A recent home victory, where Millwall edged past Blackburn Rovers 1-0, has momentarily halted their slide and set the stage for Neil's potential arrival. The club is now focusing on building on the foundational work Harris accomplished.

Neil, who previously managed Stoke City until December 2022, is seen as the right fit for Millwall. His managerial style, described as 'no nonsense', aligns with the club's current needs and budget. The search for the new manager saw Millwall evaluating several candidates, including Wycombe Wanderers' Matt Bloomfield and free agents Ryan Lowe and Steven Schumacher, but Neil has emerged as the frontrunner.

The Scotsman boasts considerable experience managing clubs at the second tier, having previously helmed Norwich City, Preston North End, and Sunderland. His track record gives him the edge as Millwall looks to build on their recent success and improve their league standing.

Interestingly, Neil's upcoming tenure would not only mark his return to management but also coincide with Millwall's upcoming match against Norwich City on Boxing Day, one of Neil's former clubs. This match presents both nostalgia and opportunity as he potentially steps onto the field as the Lions' manager.

David Livermore, currently the interim manager and club legend, provided insight on the situation, stating, "I think it is a day-by-day thing. If there was a new manager by Monday morning, no issue. Let’s crack on." Livermore's leadership recently halted Millwall's losing streak, and he remains prepared to take charge during the club's transitional period.

The club's management has maintained the process for hiring a new head coach is being approached methodically. Director of Football Steve Gallen emphasized the urgency for strategic direction, saying, "A comprehensive recruitment process is already underway for a new head coach. The direction we as a club want to head is clear, and the next head coach will play a pivotal role in helping us execute our strategy."

Millwall's supporters are hopeful as they await confirmation of Neil's appointment. His past experience and knowledge of the Championship are viewed positively, and fans are eager to see how he can lead the team moving forward.

Harris's departure came after he significantly improved the squad, but the turning point was not without drama, as he ended his time at Millwall on uncertain terms. Harris was respected among fans, which is not something Neil can rely on immediately; he must carve out his identity as the new face of the Lions.

Once appointed, Alex Neil's challenge will be to synergize with Livermore and the current squad, ensuring Millwall builds upon their recent successes. Fans will look to him to capitalize on the team's strengths and make the necessary tactical changes to improve their standing as the season progresses.

Neil's managerial experiences, including his success at Norwich City, where he secured promotion to the Premier League, weigh heavily on the expectations set before him. His previous forays will inform his approach to leading Millwall through the remainder of the Championship season.

While speculation grows around his impending appointment, one thing remains clear: Millwall is poised for change, and with Neil at the helm, there are high hopes for the Lions' return to form.

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