Millwall FC is on the verge of a significant appointment, with the club locked in advanced negotiations to bring Gary Rowett in as their new manager. The Jaya9 exclusive understands that a deal could be finalized within the next 48 hours, a move that signals the club’s ambition to secure their Championship status with a proven leader.
The former Stoke City, Derby County, and Birmingham City boss is reportedly held in high esteem by the Millwall hierarchy. They see him as the ideal candidate to inject stability and tactical discipline into the squad following the departure of club legend Neil Harris. Rowett’s extensive experience in the second tier of English football is viewed as a critical asset for a team looking to climb the table and build for the future.
Why Gary Rowett Fits the Millwall Mold
At 45, Gary Rowett has been without a club since his departure from Stoke City in January. However, his time away from the dugout has done little to diminish his reputation as a shrewd and organized manager. His teams are typically known for their defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess, a style of play that could resonate well with the passionate fanbase at The Den.
Football analyst Mark Thompson, speaking to Jaya9, noted: “Rowett’s appointment would be a classic Millwall move. He’s a pragmatic manager who gets the most out of his squads without needing a massive budget. His work at Derby, in particular, was impressive. He knows this league inside and out, and that’s exactly what a club in Millwall’s position needs right now – a safe pair of hands.”
The Current State of Play at The Den
The urgency for a new appointment is underscored by Millwall‘s recent form. A heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Brentford last weekend, where they conceded three goals in the final six minutes, was a brutal reminder of the team’s current fragility. The result leaves the Lions in 17th place in the Championship table, not yet in a relegation dogfight but certainly looking over their shoulders.
Caretaker manager Adam Barrett, who has steadied the ship, remains in contention for the permanent role. After the Brentford match, he admitted his future was uncertain, stating, “I honestly don’t know, I haven’t been told… I’ve been concentrating day-to-day making sure we’ve been preparing as best we can.” His dedication has been appreciated, but the board’s pursuit of Rowett suggests they are looking for a more seasoned option.
A Shift in Managerial Pursuits
Millwall‘s search has seen them linked with several names. Earlier talks with the highly-regarded Gareth Ainsworth ultimately did not come to fruition, as he is now expected to remain committed to his project at Wycombe Wanderers. This has seemingly accelerated the move for Rowett, who represents a different but equally compelling profile.
The new manager’s first test could come as soon as this Tuesday when Millwall hosts Cardiff City in a crucial Championship clash. It will be a baptism of fire, offering an immediate chance to impose his philosophy and start moving the team up the standings.
Building on a Solid Foundation
Whoever takes charge will be following in the sizable footsteps of Neil Harris, who enjoyed a successful four-and-a-half-year tenure. Harris achieved a memorable promotion to the Championship in 2017 and masterminded two runs to the FA Cup quarter-finals, cementing his legacy at the club. The new appointment will be tasked with creating a new legacy, building on that foundation to achieve consistent success in the second tier.
The coming days are pivotal for the future of Millwall FC. Securing a manager of Gary Rowett’s caliber would be a statement of intent, providing the club with the leadership and Championship expertise required to navigate the rest of the season and beyond. For the latest updates on this developing story and all your Championship news, keep it locked to Jaya9.
What do you think, Lions fans? Is Gary Rowett the right man for the job? Share your thoughts and predictions for the Cardiff match in the comments below
