Millwall boss Gary Rowett not interested in looking at Championship league table

By ALEX GRACE

Gary Rowett is not focusing on the Championship top six despite his Millwall side closing the gap to the play-off places to just two points after their 1-0 victory over Brentford.

He said: “I’m not really interested in that at the moment, [gap to the play-offs] it’s more about us getting better, trying to improve some aspects of our game. There’s still lots for the lads to learn in terms of how we want to play.

He was quick to praise his players for what they have taken on board since he arrived at the club in October.

“So far they’ve been fantastic in their attitude to try to implement it. You saw our structure in terms of how we pressed them [Brentford] in the right areas.

Millwall’s goal came as a result of Jayson Molumby closing down Brentford goalkeeper David Raya and forcing him into a mistake.

“We always try to press goalkeeper’s kicks because it’s an easy way to get your structure,” said Rowett. We did it really well.

The Millwall manager decided to start with the 5-2-3 formation which has served Millwall so well on the road.

“It was the first time we’ve played a five at home, we’ve played it very effectively away,” said Rowett. “I felt we nullified their clear chances. Bart [Bialkowski] has made one good save but we kept them at bay very well and should have had some more opportunities of our own.”

PICTURE BY BRIAN TONKS