Neil Harris, Millwall Football Club's all-time leading goalscorer, says he would be the proudest person alive to see the Lions reach the Premier League. The former manager, now in charge of Cambridge United, made the comments after his current side's 1-0 EFL Cup defeat to Millwall in August 2024, as reported by Southwark News. Millwall currently sits 7th in the Championship with six points from three games, three points behind leaders Charlton Athletic.
What did Neil Harris say about Millwall's future?
Harris, who also ranks in the top five for club appearances, was clear about his emotional investment. "As the record goalscorer and in the top five for record appearances, no one will be prouder than me to see the club in the Premier League," he stated. His connection runs deep, having managed the club for over five years across four separate stints as permanent and interim boss. The warm reception he received from Millwall fans after the recent cup tie underscored that bond. "The response they gave to me tonight was magical, and I’m very thankful for that," Harris added.
How did Harris contribute to Millwall's current position?
Harris was appointed head coach in February 2024 with the club just one point above the relegation zone. He guided the team to eight wins in his final thirteen games, securing a 13th-place finish and avoiding the drop. His stated aim was to ensure safety, help develop the squad, and reconnect the supporters with the team. Harris believes he laid important foundations for the success that followed under Alex Neil. The club is now in a strong position under chairman Jimmy Berylson, who took over from his father John and has overseen significant development.
What is Millwall's recent history under Alex Neil?
Alex Neil, described by Harris as a wonderful manager and a perfect fit, built on that platform. In the 2023-24 season, he guided Millwall to a second-tier top-six finish for the first time in over two decades, though they lost 2-0 to Hull City in the play-off semi-finals. Harris attended the home leg of that semi-final, sitting in the boardroom with club officials, but could not use his ticket for the away fixture. Neil has reportedly acknowledged that there is still work to do, but the trajectory is positive. Fans can track the team's progress on the official standings page.
What is the current context for Millwall?
The Lions have started the 2026-27 season solidly. They have six points from two wins and one loss, scoring six goals and conceding five for a +1 goal difference. Their recent form reads as two wins followed by a loss. The immediate focus shifts to the next Championship fixture, a home match against Wrexham on September 2nd. Supporters can find full details for this and all upcoming games on the club's fixtures schedule. The match presents an opportunity to build momentum before the international break.
Harris's legacy at The Den is secure, from his playing days to his managerial rescue act. While his immediate challenge is with Cambridge United, his heart remains with Millwall. The club's current campaign, with its promising start and a manager in Alex Neil who fits the club's identity, continues a journey that Harris helped steer back on course. The dream of Premier League football, a vision shared by the legend and the current squad, drives the club forward from its 7th-place standing.
