Theo has loved it at Millwall

That much was evident when Paphitis introduced a controversial membership scheme after violence broke out following Millwall's defeat to Birmingham in the play-off semi-finals three years ago.

"The problems outside the ground after the game took a big piece out of me," said Paphitis, who admits he came close to quitting. "When a bit of china is broken you can stick it together again but you still see the marks, and those marks are still there. That was definitely my lowest point. But the level of problems we've had in the last few years has been zilch and I'm very proud of that."

Though not as proud as he was when the final whistle blew at Old Trafford in the FA Cup semi-final last year, confirming victory over Sunderland. "That has to be the biggest highlight ever," said Paphitis.

It was, though, an occasion which fans hoped would provide the impetus to launch a serious bid for promotion this season. That has failed to materialise, though Paphitis denied the club have been too prudent under his tenure.

"My investment in Millwall is a few million, it doesn't seem a lot but it would if I showed you what you could spend with it," said Paphitis. "We have had some great times, we have achieved a hell of a lot, maybe I should have put £50m in - but I think my missus would have left me and my kids would have had me sectioned!"

Paphitis, who will remain on the board at Millwall, admits that under Jeff Burnige, his successor, the club "won't be able to afford the payroll at the moment". The new chairman will also be faced with the immediate problem of outlining whether Dennis Wise has a future as manager. "I don't think that will be a issue," said Paphitis, perhaps tellingly.

But what about Paphitis's presence on the backbenches - will that not be an issue for Burnige? "If I was Jeff I would block my number on his phone," said Paphitis, laughing. "I'll be that bloke whinging and moaning at him all the time. But no, I do know how to behave, exchairman should enjoy the time that they've had and the present chairman should be allowed to get on with his job."

Paphitis has one piece of unfinished business at Millwall. "I have got to do the naked run around London and it will happen in the summer," said Paphitis, referring to the promise he made if Millwall qualified for Europe. "But the weather has to get warmer first - I don't want to embarrass myself totally!"