'It's time' - Billy Mitchell shares Millwall farewell message after sealing Sheffield Wednesday transfer
Sheffield Wednesday confirmed the signing of Billy Mitchell on a free transfer from Millwall on Sunday.
New Sheffield Wednesday recruit Billy Mitchell has said “it’s time for a new challenge” after issuing an emotional farewell to his former club, Millwall.
The Owls confirmed the signing of the midfield enforcer on a free transfer on Sunday. He has signed a three-year deal at Hillsborough and has travelled to Hungary with the rest of the squad for their European pre-season tour.
The 25-year-old was presented with three contract offers by Millwall, but both parties failed to reach an agreement on a new deal. As a result, Mitchell officially left his boyhood club when his contract expired at the end of last month.
Mitchell, who has made a name for himself by being strong in the tackle and neat and tidy in possession, joined Millwall as a youngster and climbed the rungs of the club’s academy system before eventually graduating to the first-team. He made 196 appearances for the Londoners.
Having finalised his move to Hillsborough, the midfielder, who is the Owls’ third midfield signing of the summer, has issued a lengthy farewell reflecting on his time at The Den, thanking his former club for helping him become the person and player he is today.
Speaking via Millwall’s club media channels, Mitchell said: “Dear Millwall family,
“I’m emotional writing this, and it’s difficult to know where to start. You have been my home for the last ten years, helping to forge me into the person and player I’m proud to be today.
“From the academy to narrowly missing out on automatic promotion last season, we’ve been through it all. I’d like to thank the Berylson family for being the most incredible owners to play for and for all of your generosity. I have no doubt Millwall is going places under your stewardship.
“Thank you to every manager and coach I’ve played under who believed in me and taught me something new about the game. You all gave me the opportunity to live out my boyhood dream. Thank you to every member of staff who made coming to work every day enjoyable. You are the people who make this great club tick.
“To the fearsome fans, you make The Den a place to behold! Thank you for sticking by me through the highs and lows. It was a privilege to wear the Millwall shirt and represent you. You most certainly live up to your globally revered reputation.
“And last but not least, to all the teammates, past and present, I’ve shared the dressing room and pitch with. We’ve made memories and friendships that will last a lifetime, and if I could do it all over again, I would.
“It’s time for a new challenge. However, I’ll always be keeping a close eye on your progress. Millwall will forever hold a special place in my heart. I wholeheartedly wish nothing but the very best for the club, and I sincerely hope this isn’t the last time our paths cross.
“Love to you all,
“Billy.”