EX-ENGLAND Striker Kevin Phillips says Millwall are in a “wonderful position” and praised Alex Neil for doing a “magnificent job”.
Neil has the Lions on course for their first Championship play-off appearance in over 20 years, with his side fourth heading into the final eight games of the season.
Phillips, who won eight caps for England and was most recently head coach of National League side AFC Fylde, has been impressed by what he has seen.
“It doesn’t surprise me,” Phillips told BestBettingSites. “I’ve been in his company. I’ve watched his Sunderland side. I’ve watched his teams over the years. He’s that type of manager, very much on the front foot, wants his players to press and play aggressive style of football.
“To go to Millwall and do the job he’s done is outstanding. He’s done a magnificent job.
“Does it surprise me? No, because he’s got a history of doing that with teams. He got Sunderland promoted out of League One when many, many managers tried. He’s got great experience. The players, the squad he’s built there, the balance when you look at the squad of the senior players and the young players – he’s got a lot of young players.
“He’s recruited really, really well. He’s done a magnificent job there so far. Are they quite good enough to get in those top two spots? There’s every opportunity. But at the minute, they’re in a wonderful position.
“The players he brought in – Tommy Watson, Anthony Patterson – he brought competition. Barry Bannan, who he’s brought in, who’s a wonderful footballer, as we know.
“The young lad, Femi Azeez, he’s got fifteen goal contributions. They’re talking very, very highly of him down there. He’s had a superb season. He’s being likened to Bukayo Saka, which is a big statement. He’s been excellent.
“Also, to be successful in the Championship, you need to have a strong defence. Jake Cooper at centre-half, the big lad, he’s been there a while. He’s been an ever-present player this season. He’s been awesome. He’s a leader. Balancing the squad is really, really good. They’ve got some really, really talented players there.”