Millwall: Harry Redknapp backs Marc Bircham for manager's job

Harry Redknapp has backed Marc Bircham to become the new Millwall manager.

Bircham, 34, began his playing career with the Lions, but is currently a member of Redknapp's coaching staff at Queens Park Rangers.

"I think he'd be a really good choice and it would be a great opportunity for him," Redknapp said.

"He's a great lad, he works hard with the young players here and really knows the game. I think he would jump at it if he was given the chance."

Kenny Jackett resigned as Millwall boss just three days after the season ended, having secured the club's Championship status for the third successive year.

Should the board go for Bircham, he would become one of the youngest managers in the Football League.

He played more than 100 games for Millwall between 1996 and 2002 before moving on to QPR, but had to retire in 2009 after a succession of injuries.

Since then he has worked with the youth teams at Loftus Road and had a brief spell as caretaker boss four years ago.

"People will talk about a lack of experience but how do you get it if no-one gives you a chance?" Redknapp added.

"Obviously he hasn't managed anywhere else but he has history having played there.

"You'll never know if you're capable until you are given an opportunity and somewhere like Millwall would be brilliant for Marc."

Meanwhile, Millwall chief executive Andy Ambler has denied that anyone has been approached over their vacant managerial position.

He expects to formulate a shortlist over the next week.

"Naturally there will be speculation and as a board we've been enthused by the number and quality of applicants thus far," he told the club website.

"But that is as far as it has got. It's still just a matter of days since the process began and the club will take all the time it needs to find the appropriate person to fill the vacancy."