Nevertheless, by taking on the position of chairman Burnige does run the risk of jeopardising the relationship he enjoys with Millwall fans, which originated during his father's tenure at the club. "Is that a good enough reason to turn [the chance to be chairman] down? No." said Burnige. "All the messages that I've had, and I've had a lot, have been incredibly kind in their reception to me, it's moved me to tears. Perhaps I'd better resign now because I'll never ever be this popular again." On paper Burnige has a tough act to follow. During Paphitis's eight-year reign Millwall have won promotion, appeared at Wembley, twice made the play-offs, reached the FA Cup Final and, more recently, appeared in the Uefa Cup. "Even his biggest critics can't shift those facts," said Burnige. Yet, the sceptics do remain, many of whom are frustrated at a perceived lack of investment on the playing side. That policy might not radically change under Burnige, who admits "I don't have £10million to £20m", but what he does possess is a burning desire to take Millwall forward.
