Claridge takes charge at Lions' Den

Millwall have appointed former player Steve Claridge as their new manager.

The 39-year-old, who played for the club between 2001 and 2003, has been chosen to succeed Dennis Wise, who resigned on the final day of last season.

Lions chairman Jeff Burnige told the club’s official website, millwallfc.co.uk: “I am delighted with the appointment.

“Steve Claridge fulfils the criteria I was looking for in a manager and indeed he is the only candidate to whom I offered the job.

“The clinching factor for me, however, is that he is the person with the burning desire to manager Millwall. Steve has a passion for this club that supporters can identify with.”

Claridge added: “I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to manage Millwall. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here previously and this is a challenge I just couldn’t turn down.

“Everyone at Millwall knows me and knows what to expect and I am now looking forward to getting started.”