Next Millwall manager: Ex-Leeds United and Sunderland men emerge as 'targets' to replace Neil Harris

David Livermore has been appointed as interim head coach at Millwall as the club search for a permanent replacement for Neil Harris. The 47-year-old’s unexpected departure was announced last week. He took charge of 1-0 defeats to Sheffield United and Middlesbrough before officially stepping down from his duties.

A number of names have been linked to the vacancy, including former Coventry City boss Mark Robins and the likes of Steven Schumacher, who was last in charge of Millwall’s Championship rivals Stoke City. According to the Daily Mirror, Lincoln City boss Michael Skubala is ‘highly thought of’ by the Millwall hierarchy as they weigh up their options.

The 42-year-old from Nottingham was previously head coach of Leeds United Under-21s before taking interim charge of the first team after Jesse Marsch was sacked. The Whites were in the Premier League at the time, as Skubala drew 2-2 with Manchester United at Old Trafford in his first game in charge. He managed three games in total but lost the other two before joining Lincoln City in November 2023. He has taken charge of 58 games at the club, winning 26, drawing 16 and losing 16.

The same report from the Mirror also claims that former Sunderland and Stoke City boss Alex Neil is another who ‘could be spoken to’ by Millwall. The 43-year-old from Scotland has been out of management since being sacked by Stoke just over 12 months ago. He has twice been promoted in the EFL, winning the Championship play-offs with Norwich City in 2015 and the League One play-offs with Sunderland in 2022.

Livermore will be assisted by Adam Barrett, Andy Marshall and Kevin Nugent for his temporary spell as the Lions prepare for fixtures against Blackburn Rovers, Norwich City, Coventry City, Oxford United and Sheffield Wednesday over the festive period. Livermore said after his interim appointment was announced: "I feel privileged to be entrusted with taking temporary charge of the first-team. I care deeply about this football club and with the support of Adam, Kevin and Andy, three experienced coaches, our sole aim and focus is preparing the players for this weekend's League fixture against Blackburn Rovers at The Den. We know this squad of players very well and have great relationships with them all. We look forward to working with the team and the support staff to achieve a positive result for the football club this Saturday."

Millwall director of football, Steve Gallen, added: “David is an excellent coach who has a rich history with this football club. David and I have held really productive conversations about this interim period and we are grateful to him for stepping into the role as well as Adam, Andy and Kevin for their assistance during this period." He has a great relationship with the current squad and support staff and provides an excellent foundation in the interim whilst our recruitment process for a new Head Coach continues."