Leeds United and Sunderland’s Championship rivals have fired their managers, as the chairman explains the unexpected decision.

 

Leeds United and Sunderland’s Championship rivals have fired their managers, as the chairman explains the unexpected decision.

Another EFL manager has resigned, this time from a Championship opponent of Leeds United.

Millwall, Leeds United’s Championship opponents, have parted ways with manager Gary Rowett by mutual consent, in an unexpected move ahead of the club’s return to the second tier. Rowett had been the club’s manager for four years.

Last month, Daniel Farke’s team won 3-0 against Millwall, with Joel Piroe scoring twice and Georginio Rutter scoring once to complete out a fantastic victory. Millwall are 15th in the Championship table this season with four wins, three draws, and four losses after losing out on the play-offs after a thrilling last day last season. Rowett’s final game in command was a 2-2 draw at home against Hull City before the international break.

“We greatly appreciate Gary’s efforts throughout his time in charge, and he departs with the best wishes of everybody connected with the club,” Lions chairman James Berylson said. “While my time working directly with Gary has been short, I have thoroughly enjoyed all our interactions and feel that he leaves us having enhanced the club’s on-pitch status during four successful years in charge.”

“First and foremost, I would like to thank the fans for all of their support during my time at the club,” Rowett continued. The environment they create is absolutely one-of-a-kind. I have truly enjoyed my time as Millwall manager and leave with the impression that the club has progressed during my term. As is often the case in football, the moment has come to part ways.

“I’d like to thank John Berylson, James, Steve Kavanagh, Alex Aldridge, my backroom staff, and everyone else who helped and supported me.” Finally, I’d like to express my appreciation to the players, whom I thank for their blood, sweat, and tears. It’s been a rewarding and pleasurable four years.”

 

Millwall return to Championship action on Saturday afternoon against Preston North End, with assistant manager Adam Barrett in charge after being appointed on an interim basis with “a comprehensive recruitment process already underway.” Although the London club is 15th in the rankings, they are only four points behind Leeds, who are fifth. Farke’s team returns to play on Saturday when they travel to Norwich City.