Neil Harris to step down as Millwall boss after Middlesbrough match

Neil Harris says the surprise announcement he is stepping down as Millwall head coach “isn’t an easy decision” but the club great believes it is the right time to end his second spell in charge.

The former Lions striker returned to The Den as manager in February, over four years after resigning from the role, and impressively led the Championship side away from relegation danger.

Millwall currently sit 11th with 25 points after 18 matches – just six points outside play-offs.

The club said a “mutual decision” had been taken for Harris to leave after taking charge of Wednesday’s match against Sheffield United and the game at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

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Departing Harris said in a letter published on the club website: “Today I am announcing that I will be leaving Millwall Football Club after Saturday’s game against Middlesbrough.

“This isn’t an easy decision, as everyone knows this club is more than a job to me, it’s my club, and always will be.

“Being here always felt like home, as a player, as a captain, and as a manager. We are a family, and it’s been my life for so many years.

“But I always said when I returned that I would leave when the time felt right, and now is that time.

“Coming back last season and all the highs that came with it will never be rivalled.

“It was one of the highlights of my career. We fought together as a team, as fans and as a united football club.

“We have some special characters in this team. They are dedicated and hungry to do well. With the right encouragement and support, I’m sure they can achieve great things.

“I would like to thank all the staff at the club for their loyalty and support and especially the owner James Berylson, for