Gary Rowett offers Millwall perspective on Rangers tug-of-war

Millwall manager Gary Rowett has claimed Zak Lovelace’s future is out of the Championship club’s hands following reports that he is set to join Rangers in a £100,000 move. 

The 16-year-old forward became the Lions’ second-youngest player ever when he made his debut from the bench against Coventry City last year and big things are expected of the academy product.

However, Lovelace’s contract at The Den has now expired and it appears he is set to depart despite being offered new terms by the south London club.

The Athletic has reported that the teenager will make the switch to Ibrox in a move that will see Millwall receive £100,000 in compensation.

Speaking to News At Den, Rowett suggested his club had done all they could but outlined his disappointment at the potential departure of an up-and-coming talent.

He said: “Obviously he hasn’t signed a contract yet. At the moment if another club comes in that’s something we’ll find out. It’s out of our hands, really.

“We want him to stay, we’ve always wanted him to stay but sometimes different driving forces means that doesn’t happen.

“We’ll wait and see how that plays out.

“It would be a shame because he’s obviously a player that has come through the academy, they’ve worked hard with him, put in lots of hours and you want to see that come to fruition if possible.”

Lovelace made five appearances in total for Millwall last season – the most significant of which was a 19-minute cameo in the 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough at The Den in March.

The Verdict

Rowett’s disappointment at Lovelace’s potential departure will likely be echoed by the Lions support.

The 16-year-old looks like a player with a bright future but it looks as though they’ll now have to watch his development from afar.