Millwall boss Harris explains thinking for Leonard long throws

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Millwall will pick and choose when to use Ryan Leonard’s long throws – with manager Neil Harris highlighting Cardiff’s promotion as an example of why set-pieces are so important.

The club record signing made his debut in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United and launched the ball in a number of times.

It was Leonard’s throw-in which saw Jake Cooper flick on for Jed Wallace to finish.

Harris played alongside the Den new boy at Southend United. He said: “I had two years with him so I knew it [the long throw] was a possibility.

“I don’t take credit for the goal. We touched on it on Friday but there was no specific drill. It is a throw we won’t always use in a game and won’t use all game. It will be there for us at certain times, depending on the personnel on the pitch.

“But it is just another opportunity to put yourself in goalscoring opportunities, it proved so at the weekend.

“We have played seven games at this level and there have been three draws and four victories for either team, all by a goal. Set-pieces are vital, Cardiff showed that last season with so many of their goals and getting promotion.

“We need to make sure we are ruthless and assured in both boxes. And that long throw will add to that.”

IMAGE BY BRIAN TONKS