Alex Neil confirms what is actually going on with Alfie Doughty at Millwall | OneFootball

Alfie Doughty's return would be a big boost to Millwall and Alex Neil has provided an update on his situation ahead of the promotion run-in...

Alex Neil has spoken about Alfie Doughty's absence for Millwall, with the left-back missing for the last six Championship games now and Millwall drawing two, losing two, and winning two in that time.

Doughty has become absolutely central to Millwall’s promotion push under Neil, as he offers a blend of athleticism and quality on the ball that few in the Championship can match in his position. His speed is an asset, but it’s his relentless engine that truly stands out.

Doughty has the work-rate to repeatedly drive up and down the flank to provide both width and defensive cover. However, perhaps most importantly, his left foot is a genuine weapon which can hurt teams. Whether from set-pieces or open play, his delivery is consistently dangerous.

It's also perfectly suited to a Millwall side packed with height and aerial dominance. He regularly turns territory into clear chances, especially on corners and free-kicks. If Doughty were to miss a sustained period beyond now, Millwall would lose both creativity and balance.

Without that outlet and delivery, their attacking threat diminishes significantly, which could easily see an automatic push slip into a play-off battle. The draw with West Bromwich Albion on Friday night has only elevated fears that they will just fall short, too.

Alex Neil provides update on Alfie Doughty ahead of Millwall run-in

Doughty has been out for over a month now, with the wide man pulling up with a calf issue against Hull City on March 7. However, Neil has since confirmed Doughty is closing in on a return but is not ready to be involved just yet.

It's fantastic news for a Millwall side who will be desperate to end the campaign in strong form, even if that means missing out on the top two to Ipswich Town or Middlesbrough. Doughty could be a crucial player in the play-offs.

Speaking via Southwark News, Neil said: “I hope so [that Doughty is involved soon]. He’s been on the grass. He’s been doing a little bit. We just don’t feel he’s quite ready at the moment. I don’t think he feels he’s quite ready, and that’s why he’s not been involved.

“Ra’ees [Bangura-Williams] has got a bit of a calf issue as well that he’s picked up. Obviously, we’ve missed Billy [Mitchell]. It’s never good when you’ve got players out, but West Brom are the same.

“Chris Mepham’s missing, Mikey Johnston’s missing, and I’m sure they’ve got a whole squad of other people that’ll be missing as well.

“You’re never going to get your full squad available the whole season. I think we’ll be lucky if we’re anywhere near double figures. I think we’ve had it probably about five times.”

Alfie Doughty's career stats so far

Doughty has had an interesting career to date, after he began his career in the academy at Charlton Athletic. He emerged as a promising, attack-minded, left-sided player. He broke into the first-team during the 2019/20 season, impressing with his energy and versatility.

That was despite the club’s struggles. His performances earned him a move to Stoke City to remain in the Championship in 2021, although injuries limited his impact there. A loan switch to Cardiff City offered valuable minutes and a chance to rebuild momentum. However, his career exploded after joining Luton Town.

Luton is where he rediscovered form and consistency, and he re-established himself as one of the Championship’s most dangerous left-sided outlets. Primarily now as more of a left-sided wing-back than the left-winger he had often been for other clubs.

Everywhere he has been prior to joining Millwall last summer, Doughty has been a creative force. His ability to wrap his foot around the ball sweetly from open play and set-pieces has seen him rack up the assists in recent years.