‘They’ve just got that X factor’ – Millwall boss praises Leeds United ahead of Den game – South London News

Millwall head coach Neil Harris believes Wednesday’s opponents Leeds United have been the most impressive performers in the Championship this season.

The Lions have amassed 45 points in the league since Harris was brought back in February to replace Joe Edwards. Only Leeds (47) have collected more points in the second division during this period.

Millwall can go top in this regard if they manage to make it four league wins in a row and head into Sunday’s encounter at Den on the back of an impressive 1-0 win over Burnley.

“Leeds are the best team I have seen this season,” said Harris South London Press. “I know Sunderland are top of the league but Leeds have just got the X-factor and strength in their squad to stay there all season.

“Leeds are certainly the best football team in the league – in terms of possession. Sheffield United are simply ready for the Championship and have a lot of experience in the way they play, along with the experience that Chrissy Wilder has. These are the two teams (at the top of the stack). Sunderland and Burnley will be there or close by.

“Leeds are at the top for a reason. They are the only team that has scored more points than us in the championship since mid-February. You have the right to be there.

“We know how difficult the game is and how big it is. But we are a team who have been just two points behind them since February – so they will know the challenge they face at The Den too.

“We know what Leeds are and how good they are, but as I keep saying, it’s all about us and what we do – how we control the game the way we want by giving the opponent a break at times allow us to have the ball.” It’s about what we do with the ball when we have it.

“We’re in a really good place. The momentum is there, the confidence is there and the enthusiasm on the training ground and in the stadium. We’re really looking forward to it, more than any other game I would say.”

A stat that appeared in Sky Sports’ coverage of the Burnley game showed that Millwall have been rock solid in defense since Harris’ appointment.

Of the 16 games in which they scored first, they won 13 and drew three.

“This first goal in the championship is very important,” said Harris. “The game is so tactical now that once you are in the lead you make it very difficult for teams to beat you.

“We know how important the first goal is. That’s why it’s so important, if you’re not creative and good with the football, to be solid and hard to break without the ball. We saw that in Swansea – we persevered and were always confident that we would find a moment in the game, whether it was the first minute or the last.

“On Sunday we were a danger, certainly from the half hour mark, for the next hour. We got to the gate and stayed in front relatively comfortably.

“We assume that, first of all, we are going to be really hard to beat and break. We don’t want to concede any goals, but we also want the flair, the excitement and the creativity in the final third.”

IMAGE: BRIAN TONKS

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