‘It was just elation at scoring’ – Millwall boss on Benik Afobe’s celebration after opening his goalscoring account this season

Millwall boss Gary Rowett is not reading anything into Benik Afobe’s goal celebration against Cardiff City.

Last season’s top-scorer put his fingers in his ears after opening his account for the campaign with a well-taken finish in Saturday’s 2-0 victory.

Afobe, who netted 13 times in all competitions last season, has started the last two games on the bench.

“There was a lot of emotion when he scored – he’s been desperately wanting to get that first goal of the season,” said Rowett.

“That’s always a big thing for the strikers. Benik is the sort of person, when he is on the pitch, who always wants to try and prove anyone wrong. I’ve been asked a few times about his lack of goals, I think every time a striker scores they are validating how good they are as a player, that’s how it works.

“There certainly wasn’t anything in the celebration other than at that moment he had the elation of scoring. It just shows what a top striker he is, it was a great finish.”

Rowett’s subs had an impact with Scott Malone’s corner being headed in by Charlie Cresswell.

“I very nearly started Scottie at left wing-back but sometimes with a new player like Callum [Styles] it is better to just chuck them straight into the action.

“Scottie looked like he did in that first season – so much energy and quality going forward. He’s another player who I think there’s a lot more to come from this season.

“Healthy competition is absolutely crucial. Shacks [Jamie Shackleton] playing right wing-back  gives us another option along with Danny [McNamara].

“People just need to see it as a motivation to play better.”