MILLWALL manager Kenny Jackett believes his side’s first three league games will give them an understanding of how they will fare this season.

The Lions kick off the new Championship campaign at home to Blackpool on Saturday, which is quickly followed by trips to Peterborough and Sheffield Wednesday in the space of a week.

And despite being knocked out of the Capital One Cup on penalties by Crawley Town on Tuesday night, the manager is still excited at finally getting the league season underway.

“We’re looking forward to trying to continue our form from the end of last season”, Jackett said.

“It’s a big test as the division as moved on again and, as a side, we’re looking to move on with it.

“We had more shots and more chances than Crawley through the game but there are certain things we’re looking to improve on.

“Ultimately, although it was a penalty shootout, we’re disappointed to lose but it’s early season and we’re working hard to make sure we’ve got the right formula.

“Making sure we have the right formula to win in the Championship is a big thing and after the next nine days, I think we’ll have a good idea of where we are.”

Speaking specifically about the game on Saturday, he added: “Blackpool were play-off finalists last year and they’re a very good team.

“I thought they were very unlucky to lose the final, they played very well on the day.

“It will be a very good test for us.”

Millwall do not have the spending power of some other clubs in the Championship, but Jackett is not concerned about this.

He said: “In terms of other clubs spending money, I don’t worry about them too much, I just try to get my own side right.

“There’s a big variation in the finances of the division, but that helps to make it a great division and one we want to compete in.

“When you see the likes of Craig Bellamy signing for Cardiff City again, then it helps the division.

“The Championship is a fantastic league and we’re very pleased to be in it.

“We want to do well and compete all the time.

“Every side will be trying to see if they can be the surprise package to break into the play-offs.

“It’s traditionally quite an even league and a very competitive one.

“Anybody has an opportunity to do well in this league, so the players should be optimistic for this season.”

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