Former Islander and football manager Gary Rowett has 'mutually agreed to part company' with Championship club Millwall, it has been confirmed this evening (Wednesday, October 18).

The 49-year-old managed The Lions for four years after taking over as boss in October 2019. 

During that time, Rowett elevated Millwall’s standing within the Championship and led the club to top-half finishes in each campaign, regularly challenging for a place in the playoffs along the way.

Read more: County Press interview with Gary Rowett in 2020

Millwall chairman, James Berylson, said: "We greatly appreciate Gary’s efforts throughout his time in charge, and he departs with the best wishes of everybody connected with the club."

Rowett - who hails from Cowes - added: “Firstly, I would like to thank the fans for all their support during my time at the club. The atmosphere they create is truly unique.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed being manager of Millwall and depart with a feeling that the club has progressed during my tenure. As is sometimes the case in football, the time just feels right to part ways.

“I would like to thank John Berylson, James, Steve Kavanagh, Alex Aldridge, my backroom staff, and everyone behind the scenes for their hard work and support.

“Finally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the players, who I thank for the blood, sweat, and tears they have put into their efforts. It has been a successful and enjoyable four years.”

Rowett, who was famously a paperboy on the Island when he was aged 15, delivering the County Press, studied at Cowes High School and played for Gurnard Youth as a teenager.

His dad, Eric, worked at the former Camp Hill site, now HMP Isle of Wight.