Watford and Birmingham City legend Paul Robinson has left his position as a first-team coach at Millwall following the appointment of Joe Edwards, the club have officially announced.
The former defender played under Gary Rowett at St. Andrew’s and was placed on the manager’s backroom staff in 2021 after several seasons working as a development coach within the Blues’ academy.
It was confirmed three weeks ago that Rowett had left Millwall by mutual consent but Robinson stayed on under interim manager Adam Barrett while the board looked for a new man to sit in the hot seat.
Despite being linked with the likes of ex-Southampton boss Nathan Jones and even former Queens Park Rangers head coach Michael Beale, Millwall decided to take a gamble on 33-year-old Joe Edwards, who won the UEFA Champions League in 2021 as part of Thomas Tuchel’s coaching team at Chelsea.
However, following the news of Edwards’ arrival, the Lions have confirmed that Robinson has left the club. Speaking in the club’s official statement, Director of Football Operations and Recruitment, Alex Aldridge, thanked the 44-year-old for his time:
“I would like to personally thank Paul for all his incredible hard work and dedication throughout his time at Millwall.
“The impact of his work will be felt by the players he worked with closely for the rest of their careers, and no doubt the staff at Calmont Road too,” he continued.
“Paul has a long coaching career ahead of him and we wish him the very best for the future.”
Robinson spoke about his departure, expressing his best wishes to the new backroom staff ahead of their challenge to take Millwall back up the table:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Millwall working with a very special set of players and staff behind the scenes.
“Collectively we achieved some great things and there is no doubt progress has been made on and off the pitch.
“I wish the new management team and the club every success for the future.”
Writer’s View
Gary Rowett won’t be short of offers for his managerial services so it’s likely that Robinson may not be out of a job for too long should he follow his former teacher to another club.
Robinson is an excellent coach but, as happens quite a lot in the modern game, when a new man takes charge, they like to bring in their own team that they trust.
