Bringing Ben Thompson back from his loan spell at Portsmouth seems to be a masterstroke from Neil Harris.

The midfielder rightly picked up the Man of The Match award for his influential display in the 2-0 win over West Brom and his manager was quick to praise the 23-year-old.

Thompson made 27 appearances on the south coast, scoring three times as he endeared himself to the Pompey fans.

“Since he’s come back from Portsmouth he’s been a breath of fresh air,” said Harris.

“We’ve really missed him, not just on the pitch but in training ground and the changing room.

“He’s a character.

“I thought Tommo was excellent.

“Our change of formation suits Ben, it gives him freedom to play.

“His energy is infectious.”

READ: Millwall's Neil Harris hails side after 2-0 win over West Brom

READ: Millwall 2 West Brom 0 - Player ratings

READ: Report: Millwall 2 West Brom 0 - Thompson inspires Lions

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The comments made following the victory where Ryan Tunnicliffe and an Ahmed Hegazi own goal sealed the points to keep the Lions noses out of the relegation zone make the decision to send him on loan in the first place more puzzling, but Harris gave reason why this happened.

“We saw him pre-season and it was a quick decision.

“We had five points from the three opening games on the back of last season so it was a case of when’s he going to get the opportunity?”

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His loan spell on the south coast was a huge success under former Lions boss Kenny Jackett and Harris believes the six-months spent there were hugely beneficial for the player, even if Millwall missed out on his services.

“It’s still early days and he’s still learning.

“I felt he needed to hear a different voice and a different learning experience.

“We were fortunate when Kenny and Jo (Gallen -Assistant Manager) wanted him, they’re good guys and good coaches, and helped develop a lot of good players here.

“All Ben wants to do is play football.”

Hegazi’s own-goal came after Thompson’s run into the box and dangerously cut-back leaving the Baggies defender helpless in converting into his own net.

Despite being on a hot-streak scoring three in his previous two outings, Harris quashed any hopes of Thompson claiming the goal by saying:

“No chance!

“The ball goes backwards, and then ball goes in the net”