Dennis Wise has credited former Wimbledon manager Dave Bassett with giving him his big break, praising the coach's innovative approach to the game. Wise recalled how Bassett focused on regains, percentages and set-pieces, including long throws delivered by Vinnie Jones. 'We had fun times,' Wise said, adding that Bassett's methods were ahead of their time but overlooked due to his working-class persona.
Wise also drew inspiration from Terry Venables, who handed him his England debut, and Luca Vialli at Chelsea. He described Venables as 'a very educated coach' who explained his tactical systems, while Vialli was 'wonderful as a person' with precise thinking about the game. Wise noted that all coaches are 'thieves,' taking ideas to form their own identity.
The former midfielder's first managerial role came unexpectedly at Millwall in 2003, when chairman Theo Paphitis appointed him player-manager without prior discussion. Wise learned of the news via radio and sought the blessing of outgoing boss Mark McGhee, who had recommended him. Without a coaching badge, Wise brought in Ray Wilkins as an assistant and began training sessions immediately.
Wise emphasised the importance of adapting systems to players, using a diamond formation at Millwall because it suited the squad. 'You can’t always say: This is the system I’m playing, therefore the players have to adapt to it,' he explained. His tenure ended after nearly two years when he opted to leave following a change in ownership.
