‘Romain Esse contract extension is hugely important to Millwall ‘ – Neil Harris on new deal for exciting Den prospect

Neil Harris has described Romain Esse penning a new long-term contract at Millwall as “hugely important”.

Lions owner and chairman James Berylson recently talked about the importance of having players that have “long-term value” who can eventually be sold for big sums and help balance the books.

Lambeth-born winger Esse, 19, has started every Championship match this season and has also broken into the England Elite League squad – formerly the U20s.

Esse, who came through Millwall’s youth ranks, came off the bench in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Romania and started on September 6 in a 1-1 draw against Turkey.

“We all talk about the model that Jimmy wants to create and Romain becomes a huge part of that,” Harris told the South London Press.

“Alfie Massey is a huge part of that. Aidomo [Emakhu] and Dan Kelly – they’re huge parts.

“Femi Azeez came in as a very young man with hope about his potential.

“Romain signing is hugely important for us. He has been in our system for a number of years and there has been a lot of work that has gone into Romain.

“In particular Scott Fitzgerald  (academy boss) takes a lot of credit for that. The club identified that last year. Gary [Rowett] and Joe [Edwards] played their part in helping his development.

“All I said in the summer to Romain and his father was that: ‘You’ll play for me. I want him to progress. I want him to be a part for our team and our football club and help him on his pathway’.

“He’s representing England U20s Elite squad at the moment, and hopefully, he will progress into the U21s in time.

“His performances since the start of pre-season have just got better and better.

“He was exceptional against Sheffield Wednesday, especially when we got in front, and the confidence went around the ground – he really excelled.

“He trains like that every day. There are going to be highs and lows with Romain because he’s such a young player, but his potential is huge.

“A huge part of the reason why I am here is to help the young players develop in their football careers and teach them what it is to be here.

“That’s important for myself, David [Livermore] and Adam [Barrett] being here as senior Millwall men, but also for the senior players to help them progress as real characters.”

PICTURES: BRIAN TONKS