ALEX Neil explains why Zak Sturge was replaced at halftime during Millwall’s 3-1 loss against Hull City.
Kyle Joseph’s twelve-minute brace gave the Tigers a two-goal advantage at halftime.
Sturge was replaced by Joe Bryan in the second half, and the Lions responded with a goal from Aidomo Emakhu before Hull sealed the three points with a late header from Oliver McBurnie.
Neil stated that Sturge felt dizzy and could not continue.
When asked if it was related to the illness that kept him out of Millwall’s midweek draw against Derby County, Neil replied, “I guess it would have been. I was reluctant to play him, but Joe hasn’t played much football lately. We needed to put Alfie [Doughty] in the center because we didn’t have anyone else.”
Dan Kelly’s hamstring injury in the lead-up to the game left the Lions without seven senior central midfielders.
Neil had previously stated that Billy Mitchell will be able to return to first-team action on December 20 when his squad travels to Blackburn Rovers.
NewsAtDen asked him if this was still the plan.
Neil said, “Yes, potentially.” “But, as it stands, Bill hasn’t played in God knows how long.” Even this season, he’s been inconsistent.
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