Millwall boss discusses Billy Mitchell’s ankle injury

Billy Mitchell is not set for a swift return to Millwall’s squad.

The midfielder missed yesterday’s 3-2 win over Sheffield United with an ankle problem.

Mitchell is set to see a specialist next week.

We reported on Friday that Mason Bennett (ankle) had suffered ligament damage – not a break – after being stretchered off against Sunderland.

“With Mason, we’re happy that he doesn’t need surgery,” said Lions boss Gary Rowett. “We’re happy that we should see him again this season.

“I think, at that point, that was really the best-case scenario.

“With Billy, it looks a little bit similar to Mason, but until the specialist has seen him, we won’t know the exact outcome.

“There’s definite damage to his ligaments, damage to his ankle. I don’t think he’ll be back anytime soon, regardless, but we’ll await the outcome.

“It’s a big blow to us, again, to have the like of Hutchy (Shaun Hutchinson) out, the likes of Benno out, to have Billy out, (Callum) Styles out.

“We’ve got a small squad, we’ve got to ride it and try to get through it, but it’s always going to be a challenge for a small group like ours.”