Millwall duo told to prove in training that they are ready for first-team returns

Connor Mahoney and Billy Mitchell will need to prove they are ready for the cut of thrust of Championship football before they are brought back into Millwall’s first-team fold.

Both are working their way back from long-term injuries.

Midfielder Mitchell has not featured in the current campaign due to two hamstring injuries while Mahoney has been sidelined with a quad problem.

“Connor was due to play an U23 games this week but it got called off,” said Lions boss Gary Rowett. “That was a little bit disappointing but understandable given the state of the pitches and the freezing weather.

“Billy wasn’t due to play. We felt another week of training would be more helpful.

“I’m open-minded with both about when they are ready. They have to show me in training that they are physically fit enough and ready to come back into the group.

“Being injury-free and training is one thing – but proving you are ready to come into a match environment of Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday-Tuesday is a different thing.

“It is a challenge for both players. I don’t think it will be too long before you see either in a matchday squad.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD