Determined Dennis will not be away for long

For the moment, it is summer holidays rather than football occupying the mind of Dennis Wise, though there is little doubt that the outgoing Millwall manager will soon be seeking a return to the game he loves.

Having led Millwall to an FA Cup Final, a place in the UEFA Cup and two top-10 finishes in the Championship it is difficult to believe that Wise's services will not be sought elsewhere.

Leeds would be the obvious destination given Wise's links with Ken Bates, though the former Chelsea chairman has, hitherto, given his support to current manager Kevin Blackwell. If the door at Elland Road does remain closed, Wise will need to look further afield, including the possibility of a temporary coaching role that allows him to prolong his playing career at the age of 38.

But, having just received a settlement from Millwall on the remaining year of his contract, the former Chelsea midfielder can afford to be patient about his future.

He will no doubt look back on his 18 months at Millwall as a valuable learning experience, and perhaps realise that the best way to get on with his next chairman is by building and not burning bridges.