Millwall boss has admiration for Crystal Palace midfielder – and claims he was ‘the difference’ when Watford won promotion

Gary Rowett has expressed his admiration for Will Hughes ahead of Millwall’s FA Cup third round tie against Crystal Palace at The Den this weekend.

The Lions will be looking to spring an upset on Saturday and add to their recent list of Premier League scalps in the competition.

Rowett worked with Palace midfielder Hughes at Derby, shortly before he sealed a switch to Watford in 2017.

“I remember that summer that Will had been at Derby quite a while and was young and ambitious,” the Millwall boss told the South London Press. “He was a young, ambitious player who wanted to play in the Premier League.

“The club sold him to Watford. I think he was keen to go and play in the Premier League and at that time we needed some funds to move forward with Derby. It was one of those mutual things that helped all parties.

“He is a talented player and a really, really good midfielder. It’s interesting because at Derby he tended to play more as an attacking midfielder. When he went to Watford he played as a defensive pivot, but one that gets on the ball and gives them that composure.

“I thought he was the difference for Watford in the Championship, when they went up last season.

“I’m sure that he will suit Palace’s style really well. He is a good player and has got more potential to improve.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD