Tim Cahill set to sign with former English club Millwall

ENGLISH club Millwall is poised to announce the shock signing of former cult hero and Socceroos superstar Tim Cahill as the veteran chases game time ahead of his fourth World Cup.

Tim Cahill was also a fan favourite at Everton.

ENGLISH club Millwall is poised to announce the shock signing of Australian football superstar Tim Cahill.

It would be a stunning return to England for the champion Socceroos striker, who became a cult hero with Millwall fans after his goals helped them reach the FA Cup final.

The decision to rejoin Millwall would push Cahill toward football’s World Cup in Russia during June and July this year.

Tim Cahill was a cult hero at Millwall, scoring 52 goals in 217 appearances.

It would be Cahill’s fourth World Cup.

The Daily Telegraph understands Cahill left Australia for England last weekend.

One source close to Cahill said: “He will be back at Millwall. Tim has already gone to England.”

“It’s not a done-deal just yet but expect an announcement soon.

“Only a last-minute hitch will complicate the signing.

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“His decision to go back to England will prolong his career and all but guarantee he will be on the plane to Russia.”

Both parties are still working on the rich contract, each pulling in the same direction.

Cahill does have options should the deal fall over late in negotiations.

Should a deal be reached, Cahill would start playing with Millwall immediately.

On Monday, Cahill posted on Twitter: “For now it’s about being focused and looking forward to the next chapter.”

Cahill’s impending decision will delight fans of Millwall, a club based in East London who currently compete in The Championship, England’s second tier.

At present, the Lions are running 16th, seven points above the relegation zone.

It is hoped an official announcement will be made in England within the next week.

Cahill, 38, left the A League after a fallout with Melbourne City manager Warren Joyce in December last year.

Cahill celebrates qualifying for Russia. Picture: Phil Hillyard

A veteran of 104 caps for the Socceroos, Cahill is regarded as one of the greatest players in Australian history.

He previously played for Millwall between 1998 and 2004, signing with the club as a youth player after leaving Sydney United in Australia.

Cahill made 217 appearances for Millwall, scoring 52 goals.

He made his Millwall debut on May 2, 1998, against Bournemouth at The Den, which his side lost 2-1.

Tim Cahill was also a fan favourite at Everton.

Cahill left Millwall for Everton in 2004.

Clubs throughout the world discussed signing Cahill, a genuine Aussie sporting legend.

Lack of game time with Melbourne City was believed to be the key reason why Cahill left the A-League club.

As a child growing up in western Sydney, Cahill was encouraged to play football despite his passion for rugby league.