Alex Neil Optimistic About Millwall’s Prospects and New Signing Barry Bannan

Millwall manager Alex Neil has expressed his optimism regarding the club’s prospects as they approach a crucial period in the Championship, particularly with the addition of new signing Barry Bannan. The 36-year-old midfielder, who joined from Sheffield Wednesday after a decade-long tenure, is expected to bring the essential “extra bit of quality” needed for Millwall to secure a long-awaited return to the Premier League, a feat they haven’t achieved since 1990.

Following a decisive 4-0 victory against south London rivals Charlton Athletic, Millwall currently sits fifth in the Championship, just six points shy of the top two teams. With 17 matches left in the regular season, the Lions are poised to seize a prime opportunity for promotion, their most promising chance since reaching the Division One play-off semi-finals in the 2001-02 season.

Neil is confident that Bannan’s extensive experience and leadership will bolster the team’s promotion aspirations. The manager noted, “Obviously, it’s been well documented for a while now so it’s good to get it over the line. Hopefully it gives us an extra bit of quality, experience, a bit of know-how for the run-in. It’s a good bit of business.”

He further emphasized Bannan’s technical skills, stating, “Barry’s experience and that little bit of quality he’s got on the edge of the box with his left foot—picking passes, set-plays, and scoring goals—are going to be helpful for us.”

Bannan is anticipated to make his debut for Millwall against Sheffield United, his former club, at The Den on Saturday at 15:00 GMT. Neil dismissed any concerns that Bannan’s previous affiliation with Sheffield Wednesday might detract from his commitment to Millwall, asserting, “If he didn’t want to make the move, he wouldn’t be here.”

He remarked on the club’s appeal, citing a supportive owner and a strong fan base, saying, “We’re as attractive a prospect as we’ve ever been. We’re filling out The Den, and our last game had the biggest attendance we’ve had this season, the second biggest ever. So, we’re in a really good place as a club. There’s nothing not to like.”