Former Stoke City boss lands new deal at Championship rivals
Alex Neil appears to have reignited his career since leaving Stoke City
Alex Neil has been handed a new, apparently long-term contract at Millwall after just six months in the job.
Neil moved to the Den in late December, his first managerial position since leaving Stoke City a year previously, and he helped push the club into a position to challenge for a play-off spot in the Championship.
Millwall ended up in eighth, two points off the top six, despite a goal difference of minus-two, as they managed to fall on the right side of tight games.
They do not make the length of contracts public but say Neil’s new deal will keep him tied to the club “for the foreseeable future”.
“Since my first day, the commitment and togetherness I’ve seen from everyone at the club – players, staff and fans – has been really special,” said Neil. “That unity has helped us build strong foundations for the seasons ahead, and to be a part of that journey is incredibly exciting.
“I’ve said it many times: this club is special. It’s only when you truly experience the work going on behind the scenes, speak with the fans, and work alongside the players and staff day in and day out, that you realise just how unique it really is.
“In the second half of the season, we all shared some memorable moments together, and that just motivates us all to keep pushing forward and continue striving for success.
Millwall chairman James Berylson insists he has a ‘clear vision’ of where they can go with Neil in charge.
He said: “This new contract reflects our confidence in the direction we’re heading under Alex. The progress we’ve made in the short amount of time since his arrival has been really positive and bodes well for our long-term objectives.
“We have a clear vision of what we want to achieve with Alex as head coach, and he’s demonstrated the abilities we knew he had when we hired him – strong leadership and installing a real sense of belief throughout the squad and staff to fulfil our ambitions of propelling this club to the next level. It’s an exciting time to be a Millwall supporter.”
Millwall are now preparing for their first pre-season under Neil, and his assistant Martin Canning, who was also with him at Stoke starting on Thursday, June 26.
Director of football Steve Gallen said: “Since arriving in December, Alex has made a tremendous impact, and we’re delighted with the progress under his leadership.
