Originally joining the Lions on loan in March 2014, eyebrows were raised when Ian Holloway signed veteran winger/wing-back Carlos Edwards from Ipswich Town. Edwards had pedigree and was a proven player at Championship level, but in a season when Millwall were desperate for goals, the signing of a 35-year-old player who played primarily in defence wasn't the type who would be top of the shopping list. Luckily for the Millwall fans, there was an instant connection and from the start we were together, with a roof right over our heads.
Making his debut in the 2-2 home draw with Blackburn Rovers and being an ever-present for the Lions, the Trinidadian showed lightning pace, skill and plenty of enthusiasm that many players younger could only dream of. Just at the time when Millwall needed a player who was willing and able, Edwards threw his cards on the table and showed there was still plenty to offer. In a period of Millwall history that showed signs of instability, the right-back was the spark of energy the club needed at the right time and helped drag the Lions from relegation favourites to a respectable 19th place finish. With victories against the likes of Nottingham Forest, Middlesbrough and AFC Bournemouth, Millwall were unbeaten in the eight games that Edwards featured in and he was also the only goal scorer in a vital 1-0 away victory against Wigan Athletic.
With his contract not being renewed at Portman Road, Millwall stopped the messing around and signed Edwards on a one-year contract in May 2014. Speaking at the time, the popular wide man said, "to stay up was great and now I'm delighted to be joining on a permanent basis," and these thoughts echoed loudly around the fans in South Bermondsey. The season started well for the full-back and he featured in the wins against the likes of Leeds United, Fulham and Blackpool, but Edwards' season was cruelly ended prematurely after only 8 games against Nottingham Forest on the 20th September. Going down with a serious knee injury in only the 7th minute of the game, Edwards left the field on a stretcher and the home fans were speechless. As he was carried off with what seemed like something that would end the careers of many other players, Edwards subliminally sang to those around The Den. "Don't worry, about a thing. Cos every little thing, is gonna be alright..."
After management upheaval which saw Ian Holloway replaced by club legend, Neil Harris, the Lions were relegated back to League One at the end of the 2014-15 season. Edwards was out of contract following the club's return to the third tier, however after some impressive performances in the Elite Development Squad, Neil Harris decided to offer a short-term contract until January 2016 and both parties decided to get together and feel alright. The 2015-16 season saw a more composed and complete Millwall performance and Edwards was a huge part of that, featuring in 22 games in all competitions. The Lions gave thanks and praise to the Lord as they looked to be heading back to the Championship by reaching the Play-Off Final, however the Sheriffs of Barnsley defeated our Deputies 3-1 at Wembley Stadium and ensured the Lions would remain in League One for another season.
Carlos Edwards was released at the end of the 2015-16 season along with the likes of John Marquis, Ed Upson and Lee Martin. At the time of their release, Neil Harris said “First and foremost, I want to thank all the players who are leaving us for their immense dedication and hard work during their time at the club. They handled my decision like true professionals and I wish nothing but the very best of luck for their future careers.”
In all, Edwards featured 38 times for the Lions in just under three years, scoring one goal. After leaving South Bermondsey, the full-back featured for Ma Pau Stars Sports Club, Central FC and is now playing for Woodbridge Town in the East Counties League Premier Division. His time at The Den may’ve been brief compared to others, but the rapport that the veteran had with the fans was solid. Is this love, is this love, is this love that we were feeling? Well from the fans in the Barry Kitchener, Cold Blow Lane and Dockers Stands towards Carlos Edwards, it most certainly was.
SOURCE: millwallsupportersclub.co.uk