Millwall's Under-the-Radar Promotion Push Gains Momentum in Championship
Millwall Football Club are poised to make history by securing promotion to the Premier League for the first time ever, with the race for Championship promotion intensifying as the season reaches its climax. Currently occupying third place in the league table with just four matches remaining, the Lions are drawing on past glories and the shrewd leadership of manager Alex Neil to fuel their ambitious campaign.
Legendary Insight from Tony Craig
Club legend Tony Craig, who recently announced his retirement after a career-ending leg injury while playing for Dorking Wanderers, believes Millwall have the necessary ingredients for success. Having been inducted into the 'Forever Lions Club' after 325 appearances over three spells, Craig was instrumental in two League One play-off final victories in 2010 and 2017. He now coaches the under-16s side and offers a unique perspective on the current squad's potential.
"It's been an incredible season," Craig told Mirror Football. "Lots of players have stepped up and given a good account of themselves. They seem like a good unit and are driving each other to success. Anything is possible at this football club. The Premier League is the promised land, and they will fight to get there. If that means the play-offs, then I think they will be the team nobody would want to face."
Alex Neil's Transformative Impact
Much of Millwall's resurgence is attributed to manager Alex Neil, who took over in December 2024 following Neil Harris's departure. The unassuming Scot has been nominated for the Championship Manager of the Season award, defying expectations by steering the Lions into promotion contention. Craig, who has observed Neil's methods firsthand, highlights his quiet yet demanding approach.
"He's been a success right from day one," Craig explained. "He's got a proven track record wherever he's been. He's very quiet, keeps himself under the radar, but behind the scenes, he works harder than anybody. Any player he works with, he makes better, and that is why they're up there at the moment on merit. He's a manager that all players want to play for."
Neil's tactical acumen has made Millwall a formidable opponent, with the team known for their tenacity and ability to secure narrow victories. Despite not boasting the most prolific attack or the best defensive record, their collective discipline and hard work have been key. Winger Femi Azeez, nominated for Championship Player of the Season with eight goals and eight assists, exemplifies this spirit, but Craig emphasises the contributions of many unsung heroes.
Historical Context and Current Challenges
Millwall's history adds weight to their current campaign. The club last competed in the top flight in 1990, prior to the Premier League's establishment, and have spent 92 of their 99 Football League seasons in the second or third tier. After finishing eighth last season, this year represents a significant opportunity to break that pattern and become the 52nd team to grace the Premier League in the 2026/27 season.
Recent form has seen a slight stutter, with only one win in their last five Championship games, but a crucial 2-1 away victory against promotion rivals Middlesbrough demonstrated their potential. With upcoming fixtures against mid-table sides QPR and Stoke, Millwall aim to build momentum ahead of the likely play-off battle.
"It would be historic," Craig said of potential promotion. "An amazing achievement for the football club. Everyone knows what's at stake. It's something they want to grasp – and for a lot of the players, it could be the only opportunity they get to play in the Premier League. They will be pushing each other towards it."
Despite some external scepticism, Craig assures that there is widespread support for Millwall's ascent. "Obviously some people don't want them up there, but I can assure you there are a lot of people I'm speaking to who do want Millwall in the Premier League. It's exciting times."
As the Championship promotion race heats up, Millwall continue to fly under the radar, leveraging their underdog status and the quiet confidence instilled by Alex Neil. With legends like Tony Craig cheering them on, the Lions are poised to make a historic leap into English football's elite division.
