Millwall boss targets more quality additions to his squad in remainder of transfer window

Millwall manager Gary Rowett has talked about adding more quality players to his squad – with activity understandably put on hold after the shock death of owner John Berylson.

The Lions were rocked by the passing of their chairman in a road traffic accident in the USA earlier this month.

Berylson’s funeral took place at the start of this week. Rowett and Gillingham boss Neil Harris, who has such a strong affinity to Millwall, carried a wreath to the centre circle before today’s pre-season friendly.

Millwall confirmed that James Berylson, the son of John, is going to be the new chairman.

Millwall have made two signings in the summer transfer window – Joe Bryan and Kevin Nisbet. Both played the opening 45 minutes with the latter’s penalty putting them on the way to a 2-0 win. Aidomo Emakhu added a late second.

“We all know things have stalled a bit and we understand why,” said Berylson, when asked transfer activity. “It is a terrible situation to happen. The statement went out on Friday and I think it is business with a heavy heart…but business as usual. We want to push forward and have a strong season. I think the family want that. We all want that. Monday morning we want to step forward.

“We have done a lot of good work here and we want to keep that going, keep the momentum going and have a good season.

“The two we have got in have been the type we want – very good quality and help to improve the team. That’s what we’re looking at with the next few signings, when they come here.”

Duncan Watmore was fouled for Nisbet’s penalty. Both Nisbet and Emakhu have scored in the first two friendlies, with a 6-1 victory over Bromley on Tuesday in a behind-closed-doors match.

“It was good play from Dunc,” said Rowett. “He’s got that ability to open the game up with that little bit of dribbling. He’s looked bright so far in pre-season.

“Nizzy took it and he’s a confident player. You could see a confident finish there. I know it is from the penalty spot but there is never any doubt in your mind that he is going to take it. He showed some good touches as well. He’s a very, very good finisher.

“For young Aidomo to score two goals in two games and for Nizzy to score two goals in two games, you always want your strikers to get off the mark early on and find that confidence early in pre-season.

“The result is not the forefront of my mind. It’s nice to win a game again and keep a clean sheet but that isn’t what it is about for us at the moment. Gillingham were good. They are really well-structured under Neil (Harris) and I’m sure they will have a very, very strong season also.”