Neil Harris' journey with Millwall is a tale that spans over two and a half decades. From his early days as a 20-year-old joining from non-league Cambridge City to becoming the club's all-time leading scorer with 138 goals, his impact has been profound. This latest chapter in his relationship with the club is coming to a close as he departs as boss for the second time.

A Legend's Farewell and Return to Millwall

Early Days and First Stint

In March 1998, Harris made his way to Millwall at the age of 20. Coming from non-league, he quickly proved his worth by scoring 25 goals in his first full season in the old Second Division (now League One). The following season, he continued his goal-scoring form, hitting another 27 goals and helping the Lions secure promotion to the second tier. His work-rate was a perfect fit for what Millwall is all about, as BBC Radio London commentator Phil Parry pointed out. He was not only a good player and finisher but also worked hard for the team.However, his first spell at the club ended in 2004 when he left for Nottingham Forest after scoring 98 goals in 270 appearances. But not before he started in the FA Cup final in Cardiff, where the Lions were defeated by a Manchester United side containing Paul Scholes, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and a young Cristiano Ronaldo, managed by Sir Alex Ferguson.

Second Chapter and Teamwork

Three years later, Harris returned to The Den. By this time, John Berylson had taken over at the club. He quickly broke Teddy Sheringham's record of 93 Millwall goals in the EFL. Steve Morison, one of his former teammates, spoke highly of him, saying that everything he's done for the club has been amazing. Morison arrived in 2009 and was taken under Harris' wing. They started up front together in the League One play-off final victory over Swindon Town, courtesy of Paul Robinson's goal. Both players left in 2011, but Harris played a big role in bringing Morison back when he returned as head coach.In 2016-17, Morison scored the winning goal as Millwall beat Bradford City to secure promotion to the Championship again. But in 2019, both men left south east London, with Morison moving to Shrewsbury Town and Harris joining Cardiff City.

Third Spell and Challenges

After spells with Cardiff City and Gillingham, Harris joined Cambridge United as head coach in December 2023. But three months later, he was tempted back to Millwall when Joe Edwards' ill-fated spell in charge ended, with the club in 21st place in the Championship. Under his leadership, the Lions won eight of their remaining 13 games, including their final five matches of the season, propelling them away from the relegation zone to a 13th-place finish.Harris has won 15 of his 34 matches in charge during his third spell, with a winning ratio of 44.1%. However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, he has decided to step aside. Signs of a disconnect at the club were apparent, with odd selections and disputes about signings. Hart believes there is a fundamental clash between Harris' desire to win and the club's focus on developing talent.

Final Thoughts

Harris' comments after his final home game in post on Wednesday, a 1-0 defeat by league leaders Sheffield United, seemed to back up Hart's theory. He emphasized the importance of having "Millwall knowledge" among the players. The "Millwall way" of winning duels and headers and applying maximum effort has been a recurring theme in his interviews.It appears the club is preparing to go in a new direction under James Berylson. The appointment of Edwards was a sign of intent to play more expansive football, but that venture failed. Now, Harris is leaving again, leaving a big decision for the club to get right. He revealed that he had told the players and staff he was leaving at the club's training ground on Tuesday and was moved by their response.For now, Harris is looking forward to spending Christmas with his family. But Parry believes it's not goodbye and that if Millwall finds itself in a difficult situation in the future, they won't hesitate to turn to him.