Millwall boss: Let’s clinch our Championship status in front of our fans at The Den

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

richard@slpmedia.co.uk

Neil Harris is urging Millwall’s players to secure their Championship status in front of their own fans at The Den.

The Lions are heavy favourites to stay up in what is now a two-way scrap to avoid the final relegation spot.

If Millwall match Rotherham United’s result on Saturday then it will mean the Yorkshire club will need to win on the final day and require a 15-goal swing.

Plus the Lions have an extra game – Bristol City at home on Tuesday – to put the matter to bed before that.

Harris said: “We need the fans to come and carry the boys, because it is a big few days for us. Whatever has gone on this season becomes irrelevant – it is about Saturday at 1.30pm.

“The next eight days is about us getting the points we need. Reviewing games and everything else – like individually with the players – will be for the end of the season.

“We certainly need three points and possibly four. Then it is a long shot with a huge swing in goal difference. It’s likely three points will be enough to keep us in the division.

“We’ve got three games left and they are as tough as the last three we’ve had. Stoke have struggled when you look at the players they have got and the spending prowess they have had in the last few years. But you look at their personnel and it is a team that could be top two.

“Then we have got Bristol City, who are fighting to get into the play-offs. As ever, it is not easy but we have a drive and goal. 

“Our aim is to get the points we need in front of our own fans.

“Sometimes a team with a lot to play for can be a dangerous animal. We’ve got to make sure the players are ready on Saturday for what is required of them.”

Millwall’s match will almost be over by the time that Rotherham take to the field at West Bromwich Albion.

“I don’t think it is an advantage for anyone having an earlier kick-off time,” said Harris.

“It is quite irrelevant. We have to play our game and worry about our own performance.

“All we have to concern ourselves with is Stoke. 

“There won’t be a need for people to be checking on their phone – they can just focus on supporting the team.”