Millwall manager has special praise for Lions player who has grabbed starting jersey
BY JAKE SANDERS
Millwall manager Neil Harris heaped praise on Shane Ferguson after he played a starring role in their 2-1 victory Wigan Athletic at The Den.
The winger produced another wonderful performance, including a delightful piece of skill for the winning goal – scored by Steve Morison – to help the Lions climb out of the Championship relegation zone.
Wigan had taken a first-half lead as Jed Wallace turned into his own net, but Williams fired Millwall level from the spot, just a minute after Latics midfielder Josh Windass had missed a penalty.
Then, with just eight minutes left on the clock, Ferguson played a one-two with Lee Gregory before finding Morison, who bagged his first goal of the campaign.
“Fergie’s a quality player. He’s had to be really patient at this football club,” Harris said. “He’s had some key moments the last few years, and he’s had to be really patient over the last, sort of, 13 months.
“He’s got those moments of quality in him. He’s got great delivery. What he lacks a little bit in physicality he makes up for with quick feet and decision-making.
“Clearly, I have not been settled with a team or had faith in a team. I have moved things around at times and all you want is players to come in and grab the jersey and come in and go ‘right, gaffer, I want to play for you, I deserve a place in your team.’ And Shane Ferguson, over the last four games, has done that.
Ferguson has had to wait for his opportunity this season after hardly featuring during the back end of last year and was starting his fourth Championship game in succession tonight.
Harris continued: “I think it shows him as a pro and a character, maybe. He has had a lot at a young age in his career. He is an international footballer. It has probably hurt him not being involved.
“Now he is reaping the rewards from hard work. He has been outstanding in training since day one in pre-season and he is now getting his rewards.”
IMAGE BY BRIAN TONKS