Neil Harris has hinted that Millwall’s lineup against Preston North End could contain some surprise names as he faces a selection headache ahead of the Championship opener this coming weekend.

The Lions boss has admitted he has some “tough decisions” ahead of Preston’s visit on August 3, with more signings expected before the transfer window shuts a few days later.

Millwall, who have brought in six new players this summer, with the latest being Jayson Molumby, featured a handful of their recent arrivals in the 3-3 draw with Real Sociedad.

But despite the dilemma Harris faces ahead of the opening day of the new season, he is relishing the challenge.

He said: “I have got some tough decisions to make, I have got to be honest. I have about 13 or 14 players that possibly deserve to play next weekend over the course of [the] preseason on their performances.

“It is a great position to be in. I have some tough decisions to make on players because there is real competition for places. I look forward to making those decisions this week.”

In seasons prior, Harris has used Millwall’s last preseason friendly to allow his proposed starting XI to gel together. This time is a little different.

Speaking after the Real Sociedad draw, he added: “This won’t be the team that plays next week against Preston.

“What fans might have envisioned happening next week in the first game of the season in their heads, they might not see next week.”

That said, there could still be some more players coming into The Den before the transfer deadline and some business could be finished this week.

Harris said: “I am disappointed there is not anybody in today [Saturday]. I said we were very close the other night at Southend and I think we are even closer, so I do expect someone in on Monday and possibly somebody to go out as well.”