West Ham’s next opponents Millwall earned a point at Middlesbrough after Alex Neil deliberately set out to disrupt the game.
The Lions drew 2–2 on Tuesday, having led by two goals at half-time. Afterwards, Neil explained the approach behind their performance.
His comments offer Nuno Espírito Santo useful context before Saturday’s derby, although they do not confirm how Millwall will play at home.
Alex Neil explains Millwall’s approach
“We came here to sort of stodge the game up, be hard to beat, and try and hit on the counter,” Neil told Southwark News after the Middlesbrough draw.
Neil said Millwall were missing 11 first-team players for the trip.
Tairyk Arconte and Lyndon Dykes nevertheless put them ahead before Middlesbrough recovered after the interval.
Neil credited opposite number Kim Hellberg’s changes with creating problems. He explained that Boro’s wide players stretched his defence, before he responded by adding another player to the back line.
The account reveals a manager prepared to change his approach during a match, even with limited personnel available.
West Ham face a different derby test
For West Ham, the useful lesson is to distinguish Millwall’s injury problems from their ability to compete.
Nuno’s side should prepare for opponents capable of making a match uncomfortable, rather than assuming depleted numbers will produce an open contest.
The challenge could involve moving the ball patiently while protecting against counters. Whether those situations arise will depend on Neil’s selection and approach at The Den.
West Ham return to Championship action after their Carabao Cup defeat against Fulham.
Saturday’s 12.30pm kick-off renews the West Ham–Millwall rivalry. Neil’s Middlesbrough assessment provides a useful warning about preparation: possession alone will not make the afternoon straightforward.
