Paul Robinson: Millwall captain relishing pre-season return

Millwall captain Paul Robinson hopes he will be able to build back to full fitness during pre-season.

The 31-year-old centre-back missed most of last term with a knee injury.

He told BBC London 94.9: "I found it difficult and there were some tough times. That feeling of leading the lads out again has kept me going.

"The physio has managed it along the way. I am building up and hoping to blend in fully and get myself back into shape and ready for action."

This pre-season holds even more significance than usual for Robinson, who has his testimonial game against Spanish side Rayo Vallecano on July 27.

The defender came through the youth ranks at The Den and has made 334 appearances for the Lions.

His testimonial match was originally scheduled for last summer but was postponed because of the London Olympics.

"It has been a long time in the waiting and the making," Robinson said.

"I am looking forward to finally getting the game and celebrating my time at Millwall.

"We have fantastic opposition from La Liga and it will be a great experience all round.

"I can't believe I've been here that long but looking back, it has flown by.

"I am just determined now to make the most of the years I have left in me."

Meanwhile, Robinson believes the appointment of Steve Lomas as Millwall manager this summer will "add impetus" at the south London club.

Kenny Jackett resigned at the end of last season after a campaign which saw the Lions finish 20th in the Championship.

"It is a fresh start for everyone and maybe what we needed after five-and-a-half years under Kenny," he said.

"We are all looking forward to the challenge of impressing a new manager and hopefully he can take things forward from where Kenny left it.

"Kenny did a very good job here and he has put some really good foundations in place.

"Everyone wishes him all the best and thanks him for all his efforts but is a new start now and Steve comes in with a challenge to take us forward and to the next level."