Neil Harris issues statement after Millwall exit – and says decision to quit “not made with haste”
BY RICHARD CAWLEY
richard@slpmedia.co.uk
Neil Harris has issued a statement over his Millwall exit – making it clear it was “not a decision made with haste”.
The Lions announced on Thursday evening that their manager was stepping down.
Assistant boss David Livermore has also departed. First-team coach Adam Barrett is in caretaker charge for tomorrow’s home game against Leeds United.
Harris issued his statement via the League Managers’ Association. It said: “After 17 fantastic seasons as player, coach and manager, at a uniquely wonderful football club, yesterday, I decided to inform the board of my decision to step down from my position at Millwall Football Club.
“It is not a decision that was made with haste. However, I believe it to be the right decision at the right time, not only for the club, but for me and my family also.
“I truly believe that I leave the club in a very healthy position in terms of infrastructure, staffing and playing squad which gives a new manager a platform to continue the club’s development.
“During the last four and a half years as manager, there have been some incredible successes for our club, including two Wembley play-off finals, a promotion back to the Championship, two FA Cup quarter-finals and now, relative stability in the second tier of England’s very competitive league structure.
“Throughout this journey, I have been fortunate to have been supported by a very hard working staff, none more pivotal than David Livermore who leaves with me. Also, a group of players whom I respect and have enjoyed coaching every day.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the chairman John Berylson and the board of directors, not only for the opportunity to manage a club I love, but also for their unwavering support and guidance at all times. And lastly, to the heartbeat of the club, the very loyal fanbase that supported my team up and down the country. I hope I’ve repaid your trust in me with a lot of happy memories.
“I look forward to coming back to the Den to see so many good friends in future.”
PICTURE BY BRIAN TONKS
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Neil Harris – you are truly a legend and an honourable man. I’ve been supporting Millwall since the mid 1950’s and if anyone deserves having a stand or even the Stadium named after them , surely it’s you .
Neil you are a Millwall legend and I thank you for all you have done for our club. All the best for the future to you and your family. Wherever you go next, they will be getting a great man. Good luck and thanks. COYL.
Super Neil Lions legend you gave us so much as a player and manager Good luck for future
Gutted you have gone Mr Millwall, thank you for everything you have done for the club. You will be much missed.
💙
Harris you are a legend fella take a bow
Bradford City fan here. Top bloke that I’ve a hell of a lot of respect for who from my opinion has done a good job at a club he clearly thinks a lot about. Guess he just needs some time away from the game and a new challenge, and hope to see him get a decent club in his next appointment. Don’t think Cooper is the right or best choice especially at a level Millwall want to be playing at (look at how Stoke and Huddersfield Town are doing with signing such managers). There are some cracking managers experienced at 2nd division level and managers that have achieved a lot more than Cooper. A certain ex manager of ours that left Bolton recently is still available. I genuinely wish Harris all the best and like to see him back in the game in the not too distant future.
THANKS NEIL
a true millwall legend both as a player and manager i wish you all the best for the future chopper so gutted you are leaving
Thank you, doesn’t seem enough to say. Please know how grateful I am for all you have done for the LIONS. You were a star as a player and just as good as a manager. Good luck in your future, and enjoy some time with your family 🦁🦁🦁
I feel that part of Millwall has died Harris is what the team and club is all about I will be in mourning for a while .Thankyou Neil as a player and manager you gave 110% all the best for the future ,please come back.
Although im gutted you’ve gone i am sure that your reasons were genuine and wish you every success in whatever you choose to do your passion and love for millwall can never be doubted and I thank you for all youve done for our great club
Harris you were overrated as a player and had the cardiff job in your sights when you left. You ducked us off for southend not so long ago! You ain’t got a patch on teddy sheringham.