Alex Smithies says Sean Scannell’s resurgence under Mark Lillis illustrates the motivational power of Huddersfield Town’s stand-in manager.

South Londoner Scannell is said to be interesting Championship rivals Millwall, who have also brought in free agent former Arsenal, Liverpool and Stoke City player Jermaine Pennant on trial.

But keeper Smithies believes ex-Crystal Palace player Scannell has plenty to offer his current club, to whom he is contracted until the end of this season.

The 23-year-old could return to the starting side at Watford on Saturday after appearing as a substitute in the Capital One Cup home defeat by Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.

He was a stand-out player in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Charlton Athletic at the John Smith’s Stadium.

And keeper Smithies said: “Sean’s performance epitomizes the effect Mark Lillis has had.

“He’s putting in slide tackles and other things that you haven’t seen him do very often in the past.”

Scannell, who cost a reported £800,000 two years ago, has made three starts and two outings from the bench this season, taking his overall Town tally to 37 and 48, with four goals.