Millwall boss hoping ‘underdogs’ can produce big display against West Bromwich Albion

Gary Rowett reckons Millwall will thrive as “underdogs” in Saturday’s home game against West Bromwich Albion.

The Baggies have won just one of their last seven matches and were beaten 2-0 by Preston on Wednesday night.

West Brom manager Valerien Ismael was subjected to insulting chants from the club’s fans in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Peterborough, all the goals coming in the final 11 minutes.

Millwall drew 1-1 at The Hawthorns in September – Dan Ballard scoring the equaliser.

Ismael was critical of Peterborough’s tactics at the weekend. He said: “Peterborough didn’t shoot once on target. That is now a typical game for us. Opponents just waste time and don’t want to play football. I am so delighted we can punish such a way to play.”

Millwall are looking to end a run of three successive Championship losses.

Rowett told the South London Press: “It’s a difficult game but, just like at The Hawthorns, it should be a difficult game for West Brom as well.

“We made it tough for them at their place. We did one or two things tactically that we felt hindered them. The manager spoke about teams not coming to play – as the away team you can do whatever you want. It’s about trying to get results away from home and we did that day.

“We’re aware they are a good side and we’ve got to do something differently. They have got a really strong forward line that has won them games, as well as the rest of their players.

“What is good for us is that it is a top team that allows us to be the underdog going into the game. That’s where we thrive. If I’m being honest I think we’ve been better against the better teams, – so that should help us.

“As for any manager [being under pressure], I had it at Stoke because the aim for teams like that is to get promotion – simple as that. It’s not really for me to comment on what other fans do. It’s like our fans, if we’re not winning games – like we’re not at the moment – you expect to get a little bit of stick and come under a little bit of criticism.

“West Brom are in a good position in the table. A strong second half of the season and they’ll be in the mix.”