Tonbridge Angels boss Alan Dunne shares why he feels Millwall let striker Frankie Baker leave the Den

Tonbridge Angels manager Alan Dunne feels Frankie Baker is a victim of Millwall’s success.

Striker Baker, 20, made a permanent move to Tonbridge this summer after being released by the Lions.

He impressed on loan at Longmead last season and Dunne believes he has the qualities to make it in the pro game.

But with Millwall pushing to reach the Premier League - they finished third in the Championship last season - it was becoming increasingly difficult to get a chance at the Den and he was let go after 11 years.

“He’s got something,” said Dunne, who played almost 400 games for the Lions.

“I just think where Millwall are - they’re trying to get in the Premier League - it’s maybe a step too far for him.

“Had it been 10 years ago, when I played, he probably would have played for Millwall.

“But, top of the Champ, trying to get in the Prem, I don’t see him playing in their first team and that’s how they’ve got to look at it.”

Dunne is confident he can help Baker regain his place in the EFL.

A good season in National League South with Tonbridge would no doubt see the scouts circling.

“He’s got the potential to play in the Football League,” said Dunne.

“He’s had a setback with Millwall not keeping him but he trusts me and my work with him.

“I’ve worked with many players at Bromley and a lot of loan players have come to me, Alfie Doughty, for instance, and gone on to better things.

“I’ll work with Frankie closely and help him try and get back into the league, where he obviously wants to be.

“He’s got that work rate, that resilience, and he’s quick.

“He’s got to learn the game a bit more and when it isn’t his day he’s got to find a way and problem-solve, like the top players do.”

Tonbridge beat Biggleswade 1-0 in their opening