‘Becoming more consistent’ – Millwall assistant boss Barrett can see progression in young attacker Esse

Millwall assistant boss Adam Barrett says Romain Esse has noticed that Romain Esse is becoming more consistent as the youngster looks to cement his place in Neil Harris’ starting squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Esse started the 2-1 pre-season defeat against Premier League side Nottingham Forest on Tuesday evening and lasted 81 minutes before being replaced by Kevin Nisbet.

The 19-year-old made 27 appearances for the Lions last season but started just twice in the Championship after Neil Harris returned to The Den.

“He’s a young lad and he’s very talented,” said Barrett.

“There are bits in the game, which I think even last year, he’s learning, 

“There are areas to do it on the pitch and areas not to do it on the pitch. You have got to be careful where you do it.

“There have been massive improvements in the last year. We have got to the patient with the lad.

“He has got huge potential and it’s now becoming more consistent.

“He has got something where he can do something out of nothing, as we saw last night, and it’s now about turning it into end product.

“He’s a great lad who wants to learn and work. We’re working extremely closely with him to try to nurture him through. 

“It’s exicting to have him here and enjoyable to work with him. We have to be patient with the lad and do it the right way to make sure he reaches his potential.

“He can be a game-changer for us, and hopefully we can see more of that next season.”

Esse scored his first goal for the Lions in the 1-0 opening day win at Middlesbrough last season.

“He has shown glimpses of what he can do,” added Barrett.

“Consistency is going to be a big thing.

“It’s not just about flicks and the little tricks here and there, there is a lot more to the game than that.

“Especially in the Championship – it’s a real attritional and very physical league.

“Romain is developing nicely. I remember this time last year and the improvements that he has made have been really promising.

“We just hope he can continue to do that.

“If he does, we have a really good player on our hands.”