Neil Harris says he has been pleased with Jiri Skalak this preseason and praised the winger following his performance in the friendly win against Gillingham.

The Czech Republic international, who struggled in his debut campaign last term, hit a wonder-strike during the 2-1 victory at Priestfield Stadium.

Skalak has been challenged to fight for a first-team spot, particularly with the recent arrival of Connor Mahoney, but Harris praised the former Brighton winger’s attitude since coming back from holiday.

“I am really pleased with him,” he said. “Jiri has been excellent all preseason, I think you saw the reaction from the players as well. You don’t really celebrate goals in preseason, but you saw the reaction to Jiri bececause he has come back in great shape.”

“He knows there is a challenge to be in the team, all the wide players know there is a challenge. We have Jed [Wallace] who is a class act, Connor Mahoney has come in for a big transfer fee and is a good player. Jiri is looking on song, Shane Fergie has quality in that position and we also have Aiden who can play there.

“It is competition for places and the boys have to be at their best and Jiri has definitely caught my eye during preseason.” 

Skalak, 27, struggled to get into the Millwall side during the second half of last season, and finished the campaign with just one goal across 19 appearances in all competitions.

But should he show why he was brought in this upcoming campaign then he may well feel like a new signing.

Meanwhile, Harris was also pleased with how his side matched up against an aggressive and physically combative Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium.

The victory in their first friendly since arriving back from their annual preseason camp in Portugal leaves them with two to go now – Southend United and Spanish outfit Real Sociedad.

“We come to Gillingham to play the Gills in a local derby, a Steve Evans side, knowing full well that it was going to be blood and thunder and a 100mph,” he added.

“It was great test, it caught some of the boys out even though I did warn them beforehand. I was pleased with the goals, although we could have added a few more.

“First and foremost no injuries, and we won the game which isn’t everything in preseason but it does build that confidence.”