Millwall man makes admission about his future in wake of January transfer interest | OneFootball

Millwall midfielder Ben Thompson says he wants to stay at the club for some time to come, provided he is able to enjoy regular game time at The Den.

Thompson spent part of 2018/19 season on-loan at Portsmouth, and the League One club were linked with a fresh move for the 25-year-old during the most recent January transfer window, although no deal ultimately materialised.

Now it seems as though that was never a move that especially appealed to Thompson, with the midfielder seemingly keen to stay and make an impact at The Den, but did suggest he could look for a move elsewhere if his game time for Gary Rowett’s side dries up.

Speaking to London News Online about his situation at Millwall, Thompson revealed: “There was always that in the back of my mind. But I said to the manager that I want to play at Millwall. This is my club.

“Next season will be my 10th year here. I want to play week in and week out at Millwall. Obviously, he can’t guarantee that, but I want to play games. I’m 25 and in my prime, I feel like I need that. If he can’t guarantee me that then I’ll have to go elsewhere.”

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Reflecting on those links with Portsmouth last month, it seems as though the run in the Millwall side Thompson was enjoying at the time meant the prospect of such a deal was unlikely, as he explained: “It came towards the last week of the window and I had got back in the team and started playing, so that kind of squashed the loan move. I’m hoping to play more and more games for Millwall.”

So far this season, Thompson has made a total of 24 appearances in all competitions for Gary Rowett’s side, scoring twice in that time.

The Verdict

I don’t think you can blame Thompson for his stance here.

At 25-years-old, the midfielder is at the stage of his career where he wants to be playing regularly, in order to enjoy his peak years in the game.

As a result, you could understand it if Thompson was to look for a move away from Millwall, if his opportunities at the club were to be reduced.

Right now however, it doesn’t look as though that is a big issue, which given his clear desire to remain at the club if possible, does look to be something that is working well for all parties here.