Three-Five-Two could be a formation Millwall revert to again this season despite it’s failings in the 3-1 defeat by Fulham claimed Neil Harris.

The Millwall manager made eight changes to the side that lost to West Brom at the weekend and tried a new system in the Carabao Cup third round tie, but reverted to a more customary four-four-two at the break having been outplayed by their Premiership opponents.

This though, may not be the last The Den see the system as Harris revealed the game was a chance for new players to stake a claim for a starting jersey, and for him to find the winning system to help in their league struggles.

“I have used it the odd time in the past, so it’s something we might consider,” said Harris.

“There’s no disgrace in losing to a Premier League side, I’m open to admit that I’m searching for the right combination and formula and the right team to get back to winning ways.

“Personnel is key, who’s fit, who’s not, but I just felt if you play against good players, if you match them up then player for player they can be better than you, but if you’re not man for man they can hurt you anyway.”

Speaking of the number of changes he made to his side Harris justified his selection as he seeks to find the winning formula.

“I made some changes because of knocks and niggles and because of the ridiculous schedule, my question to the players was did anybody do enough to warrant a starting opportunity and game time. It was a serious question and a little bit of thinking time for them, because I am searching for the right formula, and I will get it right and get us back on the front foot and winning again.”

Harris conceded there is a fine line between loyalty to out of form long serving players and the time to give other players an opportunity.

“Did they do enough?” asked Harris.

“I made a lot of changes tonight not to disrespect the competition and certainly not the opponent, but to give people an opportunity.”

One of those who was on the periphery of the starting 11 was Jem Karacan who had an industrious game in the centre of the park before hobbling off with ten minutes to go. It was confirmed he will need stitches on a gash to the knee but the injury is not as severe as first thought.

Millwall welcome Sheffield United to The Den on Saturday looking to climb out of the bottom three.