The sacking of the chairman of Championship rivals Leeds United and Sunderland explains the surprising decision 

The sacking of the chairman of Championship rivals Leeds United and Sunderland explains the surprising decision

Leeds United’s Championship rivals Millwall have left manager Gary Rowett by mutual consent in a surprise move ahead of their return to the second tier. Rowett was director of the club for four years.

Daniel Farke’s side won a pleasing 3-0 at Millwall last month, with Joel Piroe scoring twice and Georginio Rutter finding the net in a fine win. Millwall are 15th in the Championship table this season with four wins, three draws and four losses, having crashed out of the play-offs after last season’s dramatic final day. Rowett’s last game before the international break was a 2-2 draw at home to Hull City. Advertising

“We greatly appreciate Gary’s efforts during his time at the helm and he leaves with the best of luck from everyone associated with the club,” Lions chairman James Berylson said. “Although my time working with Gary was short, I thoroughly enjoyed our relationship and feel that he leaves us having improved the club’s position on the pitch during four successful years at the helm.”

 

Rowett added: “First of all I want to thank the fans for all their support during my time at the club. The atmosphere they have created is truly unique. I have thoroughly enjoyed being the manager of Millwall and I leave feeling that the club has progressed during my mandate. As sometimes happens in football, the time seems right to part ways.

“I’d like to thank John Berylson, James, Steve Kavanagh, Alex Aldridge, my backroom staff and everyone behind the scenes for their hard work and support. Finally, I’d like to thank the players who I thank for the blood, sweat and tears they put into the effort It was a successful and enjoyable four years.

Millwall return to the Championship at Preston North End on Saturday afternoon with assistant manager Adam Barrett taking control of the match after being appointed on an interim basis “with an extensive recruitment process already underway”. Although the Londoners are 15th in the table, they are just four points behind fifth-placed Leeds. Farke’s side are back in action on Saturday when they travel to Norwich City.