The 27-year-old marksman struck one of the goals of the season last night as Dennis Wise's side battled past Tranmere to book their place in the last four for the first time since 1937. Danny Dichio’s chested pass to Harris left him with some work to do but in the blink of an eye he swivelled to hit a volley that rocketed past a helpless John Achterberg.

The home crowd were reduced to a stunned silence whilst Millwall’s travelling band of supporters celebrated like the Cup had already been won.

Harris’s story is an inspirational one. Signed from non-league Cambridge City on transfer deadline day in 1998 for a fee of £30,000, the Essex-born striker soon established himself as one of the most respected goalscorers outside of the Premiership.

In the 1999/00 season he became the first Millwall player since Teddy Sheringham in 1991 to score 25 goals in a season. His rapid progress continued the following year when his 28 goals played a crucial role in Millwall’s promotion from Division Two.

Premier League clubs began casting coveted glances in his direction, but just a week after signing an improved contract at the New Den his world was turned upside down.

Harris was diagnosed with testicular cancer and all of sudden a future that had looked so full of promise was clouded in uncertainty. After an operation and subsequent course of radiotherapy, he was given the all clear and after a period of convalescence was back playing football again, this time in Division One.

Harris was determined though, to highlight the dangers of the disease and played a key role in the launch of the FA’s "Keep your Eye on the Ball" Cancer Awareness campaign in October 2002.

He has since lent his support to many similar schemes, including the "Everyman" Cancer Research Appeal, a cause given a considerable boost by the regular donations of the New Den faithful.

It has taken Harris some time to rediscover his customary sharpness but his magnificent strike in last night's match suggests that his career is now well and truly back on track.

Millwall now find themselves just 90 minutes from Europe and few would begrudge Harris a bigger stage on which to display his considerable talents.