Millwall's Promotion Push Key to Keeping Star Forward Azeez
Millwall manager Alex Neil has revealed that retaining top scorer Femi Azeez beyond this season likely depends on achieving Premier League promotion, following intense January transfer interest. The 24-year-old forward, who has netted seven goals in 19 Championship appearances this term, attracted substantial bids from AFC Bournemouth and Ipswich Town before the deadline, with reports suggesting the Cherries offered around £20 million.
Record-Breaking Bids Rejected Amid Play-Off Ambitions
Millwall's decision to reject these offers, which would have shattered the club's previous record sale of £14.5 million for Romain Esse, underscores their commitment to securing a play-off position. Neil emphasised the importance of Azeez to the team's campaign, stating to Southwark News that keeping the player strengthens their hand in the promotion race. He credited chairman Jimmy Berylson for resisting the lucrative bids, hoping this strategy pays dividends by season's end.
However, summer interest appears inevitable, with sources indicating Azeez is expected to depart if Millwall fail to reach the top flight, highlighting the high stakes of their current Championship position.
Charlton Athletic's Injury Concern Ahead of QPR Derby
Meanwhile, Charlton Athletic face their own challenges as they prepare to host Queens Park Rangers in a London derby on Friday evening. Manager Nathan Jones provided a crucial injury update on striker Miles Leaburn, who was substituted at half-time during their recent victory over Leicester City.
Leaburn's Fitness Race Against Time
Jones described Leaburn's issue as resulting from an awkward fall, noting it was not serious but requires careful monitoring. The striker has been in impressive form, evolving into what Jones called a "proper number nine" with enhanced aggression and work rate. Leaburn participated in light running sessions ahead of the match, but his availability remains uncertain, posing a potential setback for Charlton as they seek to build on their win.
QPR, fresh from a 2-1 triumph over league leaders Coventry City, also contend with injury absences, including top scorer Rumarn Burrell, setting the stage for a tightly contested encounter at The Valley.
Broader Championship Context
In related news, all three clubs—QPR, Millwall, and Charlton Athletic—have received a boost with a rival Championship side facing a points deduction, potentially reshaping the league table as the season intensifies. This development adds further intrigue to the promotion and relegation battles unfolding across the division.
