Assistant boss to take up Stateside challenge

Following Saturday's morale boosting victory at Nottingham Forest, the Millwall players learned that they had provided the perfect sign-off for assistant boss Marc Bircham.The ex-Millwall midfielder, who returned to the club a year ago as part of Ian Holloway's backroom team, is set to link up with former Canada boss Frank Yallop at MLS outfit Chicago Fire.Birch said: "This was a very hard decision to make because I really feel there are good times ahead for Millwall under Ollie. But I had almost gone to the MLS earlier in my career, and this time, when the chance came up, it just seemed like such a great opportunity for myself and my family.I'm sure Millwall will stay up this season and I will always look forward to coming back to The Den."Lions CEO Andy Ambler added: "We wish Marc the very best with his new venture. He goes with our blessing and thanks for his hard work over the past year."First team coach Nigel Gibbs is set to step up to the assistant manager's position following Bircham's departure.