Millwall boss asked about dropping Zian Flemming for Leeds United clash

Millwall manager Gary Rowett has talked about the decision to drop Zian Flemming for today’s 3-0 defeat to Leeds United.

The Netherlands attacker was the subject of multiple bids from Burnley in the summer but ended up staying in SE16.

Flemming has struggled for form and was taken out of the starting line-up with Allan Campbell playing as the most advanced midfielder.

Asked about the call to remove the former Fortuna Sittard number 10 from his starting line-up, Rowett replied: “Tactical. I felt the two advanced midfielders might give us a little more mobility against Leeds, who want to drag you out of areas to then open the space up for the forward.

“Leaving Zian out is going to create a little more of a headline than some of the other players. He’s had a tough summer and a lot of pressure put on him now to get us back into form. I thought it would be easier coming on for the last 30. Obviously he wouldn’t have felt that and think that way.

“Moving forward he will have a chance to step back and go again. Him and Bradders last season after 10 games had one goal between them, so we didn’t start so well last season either. It’s something we’re keen to make amends for.”