Millwall Football Club has a rich history, but did you know that it's not the only EFL Championship club to have started with a different name? In fact, 12 clubs in the division have undergone name changes over the years. As the 2026-27 season approaches, let's take a look at these clubs and their fascinating pasts.
What happened?
Birmingham City, for example, was initially known as Small Heath Alliance in 1875. The club dropped 'Alliance' from its name in 1888 and became known as Small Heath before adopting the suffix 'City' in 1943. Similarly, Bolton Wanderers began as Christ Church in 1874 before changing its name to Bolton Wanderers in 1877.
Why it matters for Millwall Football Club
Millwall Football Club, currently 3rd in the Championship with 83 points, 24 wins, 11 draws, and 11 losses from 46 games, has a similar story. The club was formed in 1885 and has undergone several name changes over the years. In fact, the club's name was changed to Millwall Athletic in 1885 before reverting to Millwall Football Club in 1889.
What comes next?
As the new season approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to see how their teams will perform. With the likes of Coventry leading the pack, Millwall Football Club will need to step up its game to close the 12-point gap. But with a strong squad and a rich history, the Lions are certainly capable of making a comeback.
Currently sidelined are T. Crama, M. Ivanovic, D. Mazou-Sacko, M. Servais, A. Doughty, and L. Jensen. The team has scored 64 goals and conceded 49, with a goal difference of +15. As the season progresses, fans will be keeping a close eye on the team's performance and hoping for a successful campaign.
In fact, Millwall Football Club's history is full of fascinating stories and name changes. The club's origins date back to 1885, and it has undergone several name changes over the years. In fact, the club's name was changed to Millwall Athletic in 1885 before reverting to Millwall Football Club in 1889. Today, the club is known for its passionate fans and its commitment to developing young players.
The 2026-27 season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several top-flight title winners and cup teams represented in the Championship. As the season progresses, fans will be keeping a close eye on the team's performance and hoping for a successful campaign. With a strong squad and a rich history, Millwall Football Club is certainly capable of making a comeback.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 3rd in Championship, 83 pts, 24W-11D-11L from 46 games, recent form LDWDW. Goals this season: 64 scored, 49 conceded (+15 goal difference). Title race: 12 points behind leaders Coventry. Currently sidelined: T. Crama, M. Ivanovic, D. Mazou-Sacko, M. Servais, A. Doughty, L. Jensen.
