The Millwall chairman reflected on the events of recent weeks, including the triumph regarding the stadium lease
A BULLISH After a hectic few weeks for the team, James Berylson has emphasised that Millwall is moving in the right path.
Billy Taylor, the chief operating officer, Alex Aldridge, the head of recruitment, and Steve Kavanagh, the CEO, all left last week under the supervision of the chairman.
Since then, Mark Fairbrother has been named managing director of non-football operations, while Steve Gallen has been hired as director of football.
After much wrangling with Lewisham Council, the club also secured a 999-year lease on The Den before to Kavanagh’s departure.
Though he did not mention the boardroom exits specifically, Berylson gave a statement in which he considered the club’s developments and honoured the supporters.
“I want to start by thanking all of our fans for their unwavering support throughout this difficult season, not only for this football club but also for my family,” he stated.
In Neil Harris’s first game back as head coach, we secured a great win, and I will never forget the reception my family received at home against Bristol City, the atmosphere at The Den against Norwich City, or hearing the nonstop noise from the away end at St Mary’s.
We were in danger of falling into the relegation zone at the beginning of 2024, and we could not let that happen.
Reappointing Neil Harris proved to be crucial in helping us regain our form and season. We needed support and found it in a familiar face. He took the lead with his usual tenacity and resolve, and we pulled off a string of incredible wins that kept us out of the relegation zone with two games remaining.
The Den saw its biggest attendance since the 1950s to celebrate this accomplishment, which is a testament to our fans, who we will always be grateful to.
“The academy is very important to me and is a key element in the greater success I want to bring to Millwall,” Berylson stated in regards to the personnel changes. I’ve made a few changes at the senior management level, one of which is the appointment of Steve Gallen as Director of Football. He will support Neil and concentrate on youth development and recruitment, areas in which he excels.
“We are confident that we have found the right person for this crucial role, but Mark Fairbrother, who recently returned to Millwall as Managing Director with responsibility for non-football operations, will have his work cut out.”
Berylson commented on the news of the stadium lease: “We can move forward with our plans for the further expansion of the Club and its facilities with the recent decision by Lewisham Council to offer Millwall new 999-year leases on our stadium and the adjoining land – with permitted development.”
Additionally, we may work to establish a new community in New Bermondsey, which has been neglected and deserves far better, as well as preserve and grow the Millwall Community Trust and its important philanthropic endeavours. We can finally start to see my father John Berylson’s vision come to life after he battled valiantly to grant the Club and the surrounding community these advantages.
Berylson concluded on a positive note following a challenging year for the team.
“When all of this comes together, we have the formula for growth, success, and achievement in the years to come. Our fans are essential to realising this vision,” he stated. Come on, the best days are still ahead of you!
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