Championship manager outlines player’s transfer stance following Middlesbrough, Stoke City and Sunderland links | OneFootball

Millwall boss Gary Rowett has revealed that loanee Charlie Cresswell wanted to stay put in the English capital because he’s currently enjoying his time at The Den, speaking to the South London Press.

The centre-back has found his game time limited in recent weeks, spending the Lions’ last six games on the bench and only coming on once during that period, making a very brief appearance against Cardiff City during the latter stages of last month.

With this, it wouldn’t have been a surprise if the Leeds United man had wanted to secure a move away from The Den last month amid interest from other sides.

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Middlesbrough were one side believed to be interested in securing a permanent agreement for the Whites’ youngster, with The Sun reporting that £4m may have been enough to lure him away from Elland Road on a long-term basis.

Sunderland were another outfit thought to be taking a closer look at him after reigniting their interest in the 20-year-old, whilst Stoke City reportedly weighed him up as a potential replacement for Harry Souttar who had sealed a move to Leicester City.

But Cresswell was keen to stay put despite this reported interest, according to Rowett.

He told the South London Press: “My understanding is that he (Cresswell) wanted to stay because he is really enjoying his time here and understands that this is all part of the process.

“Of course he wants to play more minutes. But I think he’ll get that opportunity. Sometimes as a manager, all you can do is say what you think will happen.”

The Verdict:

Boro may have been seen as a good move but with the likes of Dael Fry, Darragh Lenihan, Matt Clarke and Paddy McNair already available as options when fit, it may have been difficult for him to force his way into the starting lineup.

There are no guarantees that he would have been one of the first names on the teamsheet at the Stadium of Light under Tony Mowbray either with Danny Batth and Daniel Ballard able to be real assets at this level.

With this, a move to Stoke may have been the most logical if he was seen as a potential Souttar replacement, but the mood at the bet365 Stadium may not be the best despite their recent wins with the Potters underperforming once again this term.

And bearing this in mind, staying put at The Den was probably the best option for the defender who has already settled into life in the English capital and could easily be one of the first names on the teamsheet for the remainder of the season if he can perform to his potential.

He has shown that he can be an asset at both ends of the pitch and that can only work in his favour as he looks to secure a regular starting spot once again.