Millwall boss has injury update ahead of Preston – and voices frustration at key man’s absence

Jake Cooper is the only one of Millwall’s injured players who stands a chance of featuring in tomorrow’s home game against Preston North End.

The Lions got good news last week that the centre-back does not require surgery on his right shoulder, which he has twice dislocated this season.

Cooper has missed the last three Championship matches since the problem forced him off at The Den in the 2-0 victory over Birmingham City.

Millwall manager Gary Rowett said: “The only one who could have any chance of being back is Coops. That’s going to be a really big ask. But because Coops is a fabulous athlete, and a really good pro, he is improving every day.

“Friday his strength wasn’t where it needed to be and he knew that himself. It was better on Saturday morning. He more or less said: ‘Don’t rule me out for Tuesday’. But he has got a lot to do tody to show he is ready.”

Midfielder Maikel Kieftenbeld (hamstring) has had to ease off his workload.

“He tried to come back last week and just felt his hamstring was a little bit tight,” said Rowett. “He had a little bit of discomfort. It’s been frustrating because it is not a serious injury. They can take anywhere up to 10 or 21 days. Maikel tried to come back after something like 14 or 15 days and just felt it.

“Once that happens then you have almost got to ease off again for a week and try it again because there is that nervousness from the medical team because he has got to do those last little bits – running fast and at training intensity.

“Maikel was clearly really influential in the games he played and we certainly miss elements of Maikel and other players’ game. There is a lot of physicality in Championship matches and someone like Maikel would be a key player at this moment in time.”