‘Both showed a level of quality’ – Millwall boss encouraged by Esse and Emakhu impact

BY ALEX GRACE

Gary Rowett has been impressed by both Romain Esse and Aidomo Emakhu’s impact during Millwall’s pre-season.

The latter has been on the scoresheet in games against Gillingham and Charlton Athletic.

Esse has been involved in the first-team set-up since the turn of the year and made a handful of substitute appearances during that time.

Speaking after Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Charlton, Lions boss Rowett said  “You are looking for both of those players to step up and be part of our plans. Romain, of course, has been part of it for a little bit longer. Aido was injured last year, worked hard over the course of the summer and pre-season and has looked very sharp.

“Sometimes when you make those changes with young players you think, am I weakening the team? Maybe I should keep some senior players on – but it was all about us knowing the minutes players needed and for people like Rom and Aido these games are a great challenge.

“It’s more minutes in the bank for someone like Aido, who hasn’t really played at this level. Both of them showed a level of quality, it doesn’t matter how old you are, if you do it against a good team like Charlton then you do it don’t you?”