Kenny Jackett has resigned as Millwall boss after six years in charge of the south London club.
He led the Championship side to the semi-finals of the FA Cup this season, where they were knocked out by Wigan. Prior to his resignation Jackett was the sixth longest serving manager in the football league.
However, the league picture was not as rosy for Jackett’s side, with a poor run of form towards the end of the season seeing them end up just two points away from the Championship relegation zone.
Jackett said today, in an official club statement, he felt “the time is right for a new challenge, and also for a new manager to come into Millwall with fresh ideas, to take the club forward towards its long term goal of reaching the Premier League.”
The club said they have “with reluctance” accepted Jackett’s resignation. The Chairman, John Berylson, praised Jackett’s work with the club:
“(Jackett) has played a major role in creating a stable environment at Millwall which hadn’t been the case prior to his arrival.
On a personal level, whilst respecting Kenny’s decision, I wish I could have persuaded him to change his mind. He was my first acquisition as chairman of the club and has proved himself to be one of the best. I am losing a great manager, but he will remain a good friend and hopefully, golf partner.”
Official Club Statement
Millwall Football Club has today announced that Kenny Jackett has resigned as manager of the club. The Board of Directors has, with reluctance, accepted his decision.
Kenny stated: "After almost six seasons I personally feel the time is right for a new challenge, and also for a new manager to come into Millwall with fresh ideas, to take the club forward towards its long term goal of reaching the Premier League.
I would like to thank the Chairman, the Board of Directors, players, members of staff and supporters of Millwall for their considerable backing.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Millwall. My family and I will always have a strong link and affinity with the club."
Lions chairman John Berylson added: "On behalf of the Board of Millwall Football Club, I want to express my thanks to Kenny for his fantastic service and achievements over the past five and a half years.
"He has played a major role in creating a stable environment at Millwall which hadn’t been the case prior to his arrival.
"On a personal level, whilst respecting Kenny’s decision, I wish I could have persuaded him to change his mind. He was my first acquisition as chairman of the club and has proved himself to be one of the best. I am losing a great manager, but he will remain a good friend and hopefully, golf partner.
"I know everyone associated with Millwall, management, staff, players and fans, will wish Kenny all the very best with his future endeavours, except for those times when he might oppose us on the pitch.
"We are now determined to move the club forward and build on the foundations Kenny has provided towards even greater success."
