Millwall boss Rowett: Not having fans for the last nine games would be hard for us

The Millwall family is pulling together to help every member get through the coronavirus crisis, says manager Gary Rowett.
So he says the club would find it hard if the EFL decides to finish the season behind closed doors – and possibly start the next one under the same lockdown.
Players and staff have been calling fans who are Covid-19 patients in hospital and their families, offering a boost – and to comfort for those who have lost loved ones.
The death of fans like Terry Coakley, 34, from Bermondsey, has hit the Millwall family hard.
Rowett said: “The thought of playing football without our fans is quite hard because this is such a unique club.

“There is such a spirit and togetherness – that is a huge part of any result our players achieve.
“Our supporters are a massive part of this club. The crowds are a massive help.
“If football does start again behind closed doors, it will be difficult. We need to make fans part
of the experience somehow. Zoom doesn’t really cut it. Going back to The Den without them would be very hard.”
Rowett has sent video messages to fans suffering from the illness and also to their families and friends.
The club has also been in touch with people who have lost relatives to the virus, offering help and support – though the details and the conversations have been kept private.
“We are trying to do whatever we can to help our community,” said Rowett. “Football has got a bad rap because we are an easy target – though I did not hear anyone mention Formula 1, or chief
executives getting the same criticism.
“Alongside others, footballers have tried to help. Most clubs are doing very, very good things as this
is a very difficult time.”