Claridge had to go, says Paphitis

Lee replaces Claridge at Millwall

Former Millwall chairman Theo Paphitis says the club had no option but to sack Steve Claridge as manager.

Claridge, 39, was axed after only 36 days in charge and replaced by former Wolves boss Colin Lee on Wednesday.

Paphitis, who is still on the board of the Championship club, told BBC London: "There was a very big chance we could get relegated.

"It was a very difficult call. He desperately wanted to be successful but he wasn't the right man for the job."

And Paphitis added: "As far as we stand today we are in a better position than we were a few weeks ago.

"We really did need stabilisation in the club.

"A couple of years ago we were at Cardiff for the FA Cup final. The transition period between then and now hasn't gone that well for us."

Meanwhile, Lee has insisted that the only way he can be a success at the New Den is if he is left to his own devices.

He said: "I do not want any interference.

"I've always told chairmen that if they want to make the decisions of a manager, they can stand on the touchline on a Saturday and take the flak.

As it stands now, you could have Jose Mourinho in charge and it would still be a hell of a struggle Colin Lee

"This is going to be a bumpy ride but there has to be an understanding of how I want the club to be run.

"I have a strong character and I know the way this club must go."

But Lee, 49, is also deeply concerned by the size and strength of the current squad.

First-team regulars Paul Ifill, Darren Ward, Danny Dichio and Peter Sweeney have all left this summer and only midfielder Sammy Igoe has been brought in.

Lee added: "The playing side of things needs to be improved. As it stands now, you could have Jose Mourinho in charge and it would still be a hell of a struggle.

"The squad has been decimated. My job is to stabilise the ship and bring in three players immediately.

"If I get the players I want, we will finish between mid-table and the play-offs.

"But if we stay was we are, we will be trying to stay in this league.

"There is talent at this club - but there is not enough of it at the moment."

The Lions start their Championship season with a fixture away to Leeds on Sunday August 7.