GARY Rowett is buoyed by the mentality of Millwall’s young players – but warned that’s only part of what’s needed to become a first-team regular.
After the Lions under-21s won the Professional Development League national title last week, several of his squad, including Romain Esse and Aidomo Emakhu, who have made senior appearances, spoke about the never-say-die attitude of the side.
Kevin Nugent’s team needed extra-time in the semi-final and final, scoring in the 95th minute to come back from 3-1 down before beating Hull City 4-3 to reach the decider.
“They understand what the club is about. Rom has been here a while, Aidomo is obviously fairly new to the club,” Rowett said. “But they can see that that is something that is embraced by the club, it’s embraced by the fans, embraced by the area and the community. It’s important that young players recognise that.
“Of course, there are so many different facets to the game of football, it’s not just about determination and grit. But it’s a good starting and is something we look for in young players. It’s certainly something that if you look for if players are to step up to the next level, because the championship is a very physical league.
“It’s nice to hear those players recognising that’s part of a professional young player’s journey, it’s what a young player needs in the toolbox to make that step.
“Romain in particular has experienced that himself – Aidomo a little bit – but he’ll have seen how quick and difficult it is.
“I think that’s a good thing.”
Image: Millwall FC
