JAMIE Philpot has expressed his love for the game and says he respects Neil Harris despite his lack of opportunities under him.
The 21-year-old striker was released by Millwall at the end of the season after four years at the club and leaves with mixed emotions.
He made 12 appearances for the Lions, scoring once – on his debut against Wolves in May 2015.
The Millwall trainee made just two starts for the club, both coming in the 2016/17, against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup and West Brom Under-23s in the Checkatrade Trophy.
“I have had a lot of ups and downs at Millwall. 95% of it was excellent and enjoyable, but 5% was disappointing.” Philpot said.
“Overall, I am leaving here with a positive mindset and I appreciate what the manager has done for me. I will look back at it with mixed emotions.
“Leaving, gives me the chance to go elsewhere and play regular football, which is exactly what I need to do.
“I have got nothing but respect for Harris and all our coaching staff. When I left he told me I have got to believe in myself and work back up again.
“He said I have got the talent and it’s just a case of me proving it to everyone else.
“I just love playing football. When I was at Millwall, report times were 9am for the Under-23s and 9:45am for the first-team.
“Pretty much 95% of the time, I was in at 8am. Not because I was being busy, I just love it. I love being in the gym and wanting to improve.”
*Philpot spoke exclusively to Southwark News last week. Read a longer interview in Thursday’s print edition.