Millwall are approaching an incredibly crucial stage of the season now with Neil Harris’ side firmly locked in the midst of a relegation battle.

After nearly scraping into the play-off places last season, it has been a case of back to reality for the Lions this time, sat just one point above the relegation zone.

Having only won promotion to the second tier two seasons ago, the club will be desperate to cling onto their status in order to establish themselves further.

But anything could happen and it often does in the Championship, so nothing should be taken for granted.

One of the big positives to emerge from this season, however, has been the form of midfielder Ben Thompson.

The 23-year-old was initially sent on loan to League One Portsmouth back in the summer but having impressed on the south coast, was recalled to the Den in January.

Since then, the midfielder has become a crucial member of the squad, playing the full 90 of the club’s last three matches.

Harris has come in for plenty of criticism this season, a lot of it understandable, but he deserves plenty of credit for how he has helped in the emergence of Thompson.

The stats back up the decision to recall him as well.

Three goals in eight games from an average of just one shot per game is obviously impressive, but do not paint the full picture of his performances.

Winning three aerial duels, 2.3 tackles and completing 72% of his passes points to a midfielder putting in a serious shift.

He has more than justified the club’s decision to recall him from Fratton Park, and if others in the team could match him, survival should not be an issue.