Gary Rowett has left Millwall ahead of Blackburn Rovers' trip to The Den next week.

Jon Dahl Tomasson's side face Cardiff City at Ewood Park on Saturday to mark the end of the international break. It's another three-game week coming up, with Rovers in London on Tuesday night to face the Lions.

Millwall may or may not have a new boss in the dugout but they won't be facing Rowett. He left the club on Wednesday night in a surprise move by both parties.

The decision has been described as a 'mutual agreement', though comes at an odd time with the international break almost over. Millwall face Preston North End on Saturday in what would've marked the four-year anniversary of him taking the reigns.

“We greatly appreciate Gary’s efforts throughout his time in charge and he departs with the best wishes of everybody connected with the club,” said Millwall chairman, James Berylson

“While my time working directly with Gary has been short, I have thoroughly enjoyed all our interactions and feel that he leaves us having enhanced the club’s on-pitch status during four successful years in charge.”

Rowett said: “Firstly, I would like to thank the fans for all their support during my time at the club. The atmosphere they create is truly unique.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed being manager of Millwall and depart with a feeling that the club has progressed during my tenure. As is sometimes the case in football, the time just feels right to part ways.

“I would like to thank John Berylson, James, Steve Kavanagh, Alex Aldridge, my backroom staff, and everyone behind the scenes for their hard work and support.

“Finally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the players, who I thank for the blood, sweat, and tears they have put into their efforts. It has been a successful and enjoyable four years.”

Current assistant manager Adam Barrett will take the team until a new successor is found. Millwall say a 'comprehensive recruitment process' is already underway.

Facing Rowett had been a particularly fruitful occasion. Nobody has lost more games against Rovers since he became a manager.

Tomasson is now the sixth longest-serving head coach in the Championship, having taken over at Rovers last June. Kieran McKenna, Steven Schumacher, Ryan Lowe, Nigel Pearson and Mark Robins are the only second-tier bosses who have been in their job longer.