Millwall boss explains tactical change at Bristol City and has praise for Jon Dadi Bodvarsson

Gary Rowett has admitted he simplified Millwall’s approach in tonight’s 2-0 win over Bristol City – and picked out Jon Dadi Bodvarsson for special praise.

The Lions halted their run without a Championship victory at 10 games as goals from Tom Bradshaw and Mason Bennett saw off the play-off chasing hosts.

“I was going to congratulate the players for their hard work and effort but I didn’t – because that should be the standard for us every week,” said Millwall manager Rowett.

“Special mention to Jon Dadi, who was absolutely immense up there. I know he has had a tough time in a Millwall shirt but he has come out fighting – he’s tried to show a little bit of steel and a little bit of resolve.

“The front four pressed and harried. His [Bodvarsson’s] distances covered were absolutely phenomenal.”

Rowett switched to a back four at Ashton Gate and made four changes to his starting line up.

“Our back three have been struggling a little bit – we’ve been playing, and playing with one less body to hit,” he said. “We’ve probably been a little bit too intricate. I take the blame for that.

“I got to a point where I felt we need to kick on a bit and maybe I’ve asked some players for something they aren’t quite as good at doing.

“I tried to pick a team that would go out there and run, fight and battle. I tried to pick a team that would give us an extra body up the top of the pitch and not make us rely on playing in as much of a technical fashion.”