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Millwall have launched a 'comprehensive recruitment process' today following the blockbuster news that Neil Harris will leave his role as head coach this weekend.
The Lions legend arrived for a second stint in charge of the side in February, signing a contract until June 2025. However, Harris will now step down from his post in an out of the blue move that comes immediately before a make-or-break part of the Championship season with the busy festive fixture schedule ahead. The former Coventry City and Cambridge United boss will be in charge of Millwall for Wednesday's home fixture against Sheffield United and for the trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday. Those will be his last two matches as head coach.
Confirming the news today, Lions Chairman, James Berylson, said: “At the start of 2024, we found ourselves in a tough spot. Neil came in and along with his coaching staff galvanised the squad. Through action and leadership, he led Millwall on a magnificent run of form, ensuring our return to Championship football this season. I want to thank Neil for all his efforts since returning to the Club and we will be forever grateful to him for that.
“After discussions with Neil in recent days, he felt it was the right time to step down from the role following the Middlesbrough game and I have accepted his decision. I join everybody associated with Millwall by wishing Neil the very best. He will always be welcome back to The Den as a friend, colleague, and Lion. As we look forward, the appointment of our next head coach will align with the clear strategy and vision I have previously laid out for the future of Millwall Football Club, both on and off the pitch."
Director of Football Steve Gallen outlined the upcoming recruitment process for Millwall, confirming that the search for a new boss was already 'underway' this week. The club added that plans for an interim management set-up would be confirmed in 'due course' with no statement on a new head coach expected until the hiring process is complete. Several high profile Championship managers are currently without a job and have emerged as early favourites to take the hotseat at The Den. Below is the latest odds for the position with ex-Leeds United and Birmingham City men among those linked.
5. Mark Robins - 6/1
Left his second stint at Coventry City at the start of November after seven years in charge. He was the longest-serving Championship boss at the time. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
6. Dave Challinor - 5/1
Currently boss of Stockport County and has been in that role since November 2021. Had interviewed for the job at Charlton Athletic in August 2023 but stayed put and achieved promotion to League One last season. | Getty Images
7. Matt Bloomfield - 4/1
The 40-year-old has been in charge of Wycombe Wanderers since replacing Gareth Ainsworth in February 2023. His side are currently top of League One. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
8. Alex Neil - 7/2
The former Sunderland and Norwich City head coach has been out of work since his departure from Stoke City in December 2023. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images