Millwall manager Alex Neil has provided an update on Femi Azeez after the Super Eagles forward’s forced substitution during their EFL Championship opener against Bristol City on Saturday, Footynaija.com reports.
Azeez made Neil’s starting XI but lasted only half an hour on the pitch at Ashton Gate before going down unmarked in obvious discomfort after feeling something in his hamstring.
Neil reacted quickly and replaced the Nigeria international with Kyrell Lisbie as the Lions went on to secure a comprehensive 2-0 victory courtesy of Josh Coburn’s brace either side of half-time.
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Addressing Azeez’s substitution after the game, the Millwall boss revealed that the 25-year-old had complained of discomfort in his hamstring but played down fears of a serious injury.
“I’m not sure,” Neil told Southwark News. “He just says he felt something in his hamstring.
“We’re hoping that it’s not going to be anything significant. I don’t think it is at this stage from speaking to him, but I could’ve said that about another four players that are probably sitting at the treatment table now.
“I don’t want to say too much about it. We hope Femi’s fine. He’s been a talisman for us. The fact that I didn’t think we missed him today, I think, speaks volumes about Kyrell’s performance and the team’s performance. Hopefully he’s okay, and we’ll see where we go.”
Azeez will now await further assessment to determine the extent of the problem, with his fitness likely to be closely monitored in the coming days.
The timing of the injury could also prove significant for the Nigerian, who has made no secret of his ambition to play in the Premier League amid serious interest from newly promoted sides Ipswich and Hull City.
Any lengthy spell on the sidelines could complicate those plans, particularly with the August 31 transfer deadline approaching. A serious hamstring problem could make prospective suitors more cautious, while potentially leaving Millwall without their “talisman” for a significant part of the campaign.
However, there is currently no indication that Azeez’s injury is serious enough to rule him out of a move or keep him sidelined for an extended period.
