Paphitis expects tough time

Millwall chairman Theo Paphitis believes Dennis Wise’s team will be given a stiff examination of their European credentials by Ferencvaros at the New Den tonight.

The first leg of the opening-round tie provides Millwall with their first taste of European experience.

“It’s an exciting time but we’ve got to keep our feet on the ground,” warned Paphitis.

“The Championship’s the key aim this year but we’re going to see how far we can get in this and hopefully get to the stages where we can make some financial gain.”

Speaking on talkSPORT, Paphitis also revealed his disillusionment at the slow sale of tickets for the match.

A crowd in the region of 11,000 is expected for the visit of the Hungarians and Paphitis added: “It has been a bit disappointing.

“I’m not sure why.”

With UEFA rules stipulating that tickets cannot be sold on matchdays, Millwall fans who have been late to act and intended to pay at the game will miss out on their European debut.

Paphitis is still confident that the crowd can still create an intimidating atmosphere.

“I’m sure the fans who are there will make a massive noise,” he added.

Of Ferencvaros, the chairman added: “We actually saw them lose at the weekend. They are a very technically gifted team. We’ll have to be on the top of our game.

“We’ll concentratre the full period and make sure we can get something out of the leg to take to Ferencvaros for the second leg.