EFL 72+: Millwall ‘doing the basics right’ is reason for success

Millwall’s success in the Championship this season is down to getting the basics right, according to former Middlesbrough and Stoke full-back Tommy Smith.

The Lions are one of the surprise packages of the season and are currently third in the table.

“Millwall do the basics ever so well, the fundamentals,” Smith told the BBC’s EFL podcast 72+.

“There are some teams that neglect that and it’s really frustrating to see as an ex-player – those fundamentals and basics can get you to be a successful team.”

Successive wins over Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton means Alex Neil’s side are only two points behind second-placed Middlesbrough, as the Lions prepare to visit Bristol City on Saturday (15:00 GMT).

“They are very good at what they do, they’re physical and direct and I think the league has gone full circle, it’s a lot more physical and direct,” said Smith.

“Two or three years ago it was all playing out from the back and being dominant in possession. I feel it’s got to the point where, and I say this with respect because it’s not an easy thing to do, if you’re direct with quality you can be effective.

“People are labelling Arsenal as direct and physical but they do it with quality and purpose.”

Despite their lofty position, Millwall have only scored 22 goals in their 18 league games and Smith thinks that is an area they will need to address to sustain a promotion challenge.

“They’re doing great but the only thing that worries me is their lack of goals,” he added. “They are sitting third in the league but with a -3 goal difference which would, for me, be a slight concern.”