Cambridge United have bolstered their backroom team with the appointment of Adam Barrett as assistant manager, reuniting the former Millwall pairing as the club prepares for life in League Two.
Barrett, 45, departed Millwall in December in search of a new challenge, and now links back up with Neil Harris, with whom he achieved Championship promotion at The Den in 2017. Harris returned to the Abbey Stadium in February for a second spell in charge but was unable to prevent relegation after a torrid campaign that saw Cambridge finish 23rd in League One with just nine wins.
The U’s managed four victories from their final 13 games under Harris, showing some improvement in form but not enough to avoid the drop. Now, the former Millwall boss is turning to familiar and trusted faces to aid a potential rebuild.
“It’s a club that wants to push on and move forward and that is reflected in the conversations I have had with Neil and Mark,” said Barrett. “I want to be part of the journey. I think I can come in and really help and it’s an exciting new challenge for myself.”
Barrett brings a wealth of experience to the role, both as a coach and former player. He spent over seven years at Millwall in various coaching roles, including two caretaker spells. As a player, he amassed over 600 career appearances, most notably for Southend United.
Strengthening dugout
His arrival strengthens Cambridge’s dugout significantly, as Harris sets about moulding a squad capable of mounting a promotion challenge next season. The pair’s chemistry and track record at Millwall will be key in fostering belief and unity as the club looks to bounce back quickly.
Cambridge’s relegation ends a three-season stay in League One, and the competition in League Two is expected to be fierce. However, with Harris and Barrett back together and a summer of rebuilding ahead, optimism is slowly returning to the Abbey.
Writer’s View
This is a smart move by Cambridge United. Adam Barrett is a steady, experienced coach who knows Neil Harris well and has proven credentials at EFL level. Their previous success at Millwall will be a source of belief, and continuity in coaching style could be vital as the U’s attempt to rebuild confidence and cohesion.
With League Two notoriously unpredictable, having a strong foundation off the pitch could be just as important as what happens on it. If the duo are backed properly this summer, a swift return to League One isn’t out of the question.
