Millwall manager Alex Neil criticised for halting game over alleged chant
Play was stopped for around eight minutes in the second half of Millwall's Championship clash with Swansea City after a report of racist chanting from the home crowd at The Den on Tuesday. Referee Edward Duckworth spoke at length to both managers during the interruption, which came with the score still level.
Allegations and immediate reaction
Swansea released a statement confirming the alleged abuse was directed at substitute Jisung Eom, who was warming up on the touchline but did not feature. The match remained goalless at the time of the report, and the pause sparked immediate criticism of Millwall manager Alex Neil for saying he did not "see the point" in stopping play.
Neil’s comments and ensuing backlash
Neil told BBC Radio London that the stoppage "killed the momentum" and harmed his side's chances against the league leaders. He added, "I understand there's been an incident… but the fact that it stops the game for 15 minutes, I just don't see the point," despite later clarifying the pause lasted closer to eight minutes.
The 45‑year‑old manager later explained to Southwark News that the delay was tied to the referee consulting the safety officer, noting the timing could vary dramatically. His remarks were widely shared on social media, where many accused him of downplaying the seriousness of the allegation.
Later in the match, Swansea winger Ronald scored a 90th‑minute winner, handing the visitors a 1‑0 victory. Neil claimed the interruption had disrupted Millwall's rhythm and reduced their chances of beating the league leaders.
Millwall issued a statement confirming the club had opened an investigation. The club affirmed its zero‑tolerance policy towards discriminatory abuse and said it was cooperating with the police, who were handling the ongoing investigation.
Sport Nathan Ridley Senior Sports Reporter noted the incident at 13:57 on 14 Oct 2026, with the article featuring View and Images sections. The episode has reignited debate over how clubs and officials should respond to alleged racist behaviour in the Championship.