‘He almost became the first midfielder pick last season’ – Millwall boss on Billy Mitchell penning new long-term deal

Gary Rowett has expressed his delight at Billy Mitchell signing a new long-term contract at Millwall.

The 21-year-old midfielder put pen to paper before the Lions’ pre-season friendly against Ipswich Town today.

Mitchell made 45 appearances in all competitions for Millwall last season, easily the most he has managed in a campaign. Only hamstring injuries in the 2020-21 campaign disrupted his development and he has responded strongly since.

Rowett told the South London Press: “I’m delighted. He’s a young player who we have such an improvement in – his attitude, the way he trains and his mentality. He almost became the first midfielder picked last season, at times. For a young player that is testament to his performances.

“He has turned into a very, very good player. He understands his development is best at our club and he wants to be here. It was a really easy situation for Billy to sign. He wants to keep developing by playing games.

“There will be a time when maybe he gets to a point where he needs that next challenge but certainly that isn’t going to be for a while yet. Making us better and trying to get us to where we want to be is what he is concentrating on.

“It’s great to get a young player, who we think a lot of, signed.”