MillwallSport

Millwall boss Gary Rowett wants to add youth and mobility to his squad

Gary Rowett has confirmed that Millwall were interested in signing Alex Mowatt – but reckons this transfer window has been a tough one to prise out their targets.

The Lions are expected to add Birmingham’s Maikel Kieftenbeld, 30, to their midfield ranks this week on a permanent deal.

Rowett is keen to bring down the average age of his squad but Millwall have had rebuttals from clubs who are not in a position to spend due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Millwall tried to strike a deal for Jayson Molumby but Brighton did not want to sell the Republic of Ireland international, who instead joined Preston North End on loan.

Derby County’s Morgan Whittaker (left) and Birmingham City’s Maikel Kieftenbeld battle for the ball during the Sky Bet Championship match at St. Andrew’s Trillion Trophy Stadium, Birmingham.

“I think we’ve made three bids for different young players – we are trying to bring some younger players into the group,” said Lions boss Rowett. “The group is not as mobile and young as we’d like for the long term.

“It is not about us as a club not paying enough money – no-one wants to sell young players. People need bigger squads for covid reasons in case they get three or four cases. There are more games in a closer period of time. People don’t want to let players out. Clubs are not spending money – they don’t want to let players go if they can’t get players in.

“John [Berylson, owner] has backed us to try and strengthen the squad. That is all we can ask. We’ve got to try and find a solution but also we don’t want to bring three or four in who we don’t want long term.

“It is a really tricky balancing act. It’s about trying to get the right players. I think the likes of Mowatt have been mentioned – that’s the level we’ve tried to be at. But again it is not quite as easy as just putting a bid in and getting a player.”

2 thoughts on “Millwall boss Gary Rowett wants to add youth and mobility to his squad

  • Peter Crow

    What Rubbish – Rowett is quoted as wanting to bring in younger more mobile players and he signs a nearly 31 year old defensive midfield player from struggling side Birmingham – but yes of course he is another one of his ex players – does he not have any fresh ideas or contacts?

    Reply
  • steven Thomas Ash

    wants to bring in younger ,then goes and signs a 30yr old,,, not good at maths then

    Reply

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