ADAM Barrett isn’t saying if he expects to take charge against Cardiff at The Den next Tuesday – with Millwall close to making a managerial appointment.
Caretaker Barrett is in the running for the full-time job, along with Wycombe boss Gareth Ainsworth and Gary Rowett, who left Stoke last January.
Ainsworth’s odds had tumbled in to evens earlier this week.
That made him the favourite over Gary Rowett, who the Lions have also spoken to about the role. Barrett, however, was 12/1, indicating not too much could be read into the odds as the former Southend defender is very much in consideration.
Millwall would have to pay compensation for Ainsworth, who is contacted to the Chairboys until 2023.
Rowett is a free agent after he left Stoke last January.
With the short turnaround between games, and whatever Millwall’s decision over a permanent boss, it seems certain Barrett will be on the touchline against the Bluebirds.
Millwall would like to confirm a new manager early next week, and if it is Ainsworth or Rowett then they could be at The Den for the game against Neil Warnock’s side, with Barrett on the touchline.
Barrett is looking for a second consecutive win as boss this weekend.
“I can’t wait for it, it’s another great game and a London derby,” he said. “It’ll be a good atmosphere and I’m sure we’re going to pack the away end.
“It’s a game to really look forward to.
“I don’t know what’s happening with the Cardiff game, I’ve just been asked to take Saturday’s game at Brentford. I’m delighted to do that and I’m fully focused on it and the preparation. We’ll see what happens after Saturday.
“I haven’t been told yet so I don’t know whether I’ll be taking the game on Tuesday or not. All my thoughts are purely on Brentford.
“Obviously if I am taking the Cardiff game we have to make sure preparations are in place. But I’m just fully focused now on Saturday.”
NewsAtDen also asked Barrett if he isn’t chosen as the club’s next permanent boss if he would like to stay on and be part of the new man’s backroom team.
But Barrett remained unmoved.
“At the moment I’ve been asked to take charge of two games (including Leeds) and that’s all I can focus on,” he responded. “I want to get the team ready, and make sure I’m focused on the job for the lads. They’ve got to see a clear vision and clear plan on what we want.
“That’s what I’m concentrating on.
“The club will make their decision whenever they’re ready to do so. I’m really enjoying the challenge. Leeds was fantastic, I’ve really enjoyed this week. There’s a really positive vibe about the place, which is great.
“I can’t wait until the next game.”
Image: Millwall FC