Millwall secure Shaun Hutchinson on long-term contract

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Shaun Hutchinson has signed a new long-term contract at Millwall.

The centre-back has been one of the Lions’ most consistent performers this season.

Geordie Hutchinson arrived on a free transfer following his release by Fulham in July 2016.

He has played 119 games for Millwall and scored eight goals.

“I admired him when he was at Fulham even though he didn’t play as regularly as he would’ve liked over there,” Millwall manager Gary Rowett told the South London Press.

“When I saw him at Millwall I wondered if he could play in a three – he handles the ball excellently and is very, very good in possession for us.

“He is a set-piece threat and probably is our best defender one-v-one – he’s very difficult to beat. It’s nice to have that balance.

“When one defender is a little quicker and better one-v-one you can block up one side of the pitch and open the other side up because you know he can step into that space.

“He is an integral part of the group as a personality and as a player.

“The concern is that you could lose one or two in this window because of how well they have done.

“It’s a good sign that people can see where we are going over the next few years, not just this season.”