May goes in June

All the indications are that Alfie May is to join Huddersfield for a rumoured fee of £750,00 which would represent a profit of half a million.   According to Richard Cawley his wife hails from Yorkshire and has already moved the family up there.

It would be disappointing news, particularly given that Miles Leaburn is likely to be out until October at least.  However, if a player wants to go, it doesn't make sense to stop them.

It has been said that Jones thought that May did not suit his style of play and there were one or two occasions when I was surprised he didn't start him.   But that's all speculation.

Reliable strikers are like gold dust even at League One level, but the hunt will now be on.

It now looks as if May go to Birmingham which hopefully might mean a bit more money althoigh it could be in the form of add ons.

Jones ambiguous about May

Nathan Jones retains an air of studied ambiguity on the fate of Alfie May: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-boss-nathan-jones-on-alfie-may-future-as-huddersfield-pushing-to-complete-deal-for-striker/

There is little else he can do.   If a player wants to leave and the price is right, then the deal is done.  The focus then turns to a replacement which would be a challenge.

'No dickheads' says Jones

Nathan Jones has told Richard Cawley that his policy on signing players this summer is "no dickheads, no passengers." 

 “Everyone that comes in has to really want to compete and get to the next level. So they are not just seeing out their career and coming for a holiday or just go through the motions - that’s the passengers bit."

 “And we don’t gamble on character. We like strong characters here. People that will test and test the environment? No problem. But anyone who doesn’t want to work hard or had issues in the past and is not entirely buying into what we want to do, we don’t do.”

Fine words and one with has suggested that the policy should be applied to fans as well.

Changes at the top

Charlton are set to confirm Charlie Methven as chief executive officer, with a remit for the off-pitch side of the club.  

Global Football Partners have reviewed management structures and there are other changes. Chairman Jim Rodwell will oversee football operations with Andy Scott continuing as technical director but no longer on the board, in effect a demotion.  Paul Elliott appointed vice-chairman.

As for Methven, I was initially doubtful about him based on Sunderland.   He can certainly talk the talk, now he can show what he can do.  At least he knows more about football than some CE)Os we have had.

No pressure on Jones to sell valued May

Nathan Jones has been asked about Alfie May, teports Richard Cawley. . Says there is "zero pressure for me to sell or let go any footballer at this football club". Says priority is to come out of this window "categorically stronger" than going into it. Has promised that "if you trust us, that's what we will do". 

Talked about getting pelters at Luton for some decisions made on the squad. Adds that Alfie has been "really important in what we do". Also added he has "real value".

Alex Mitchell signs

Neil Harris gives his verdict on the signing of Alex Mitchell from Millwall: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/millwall-boss-harris-gives-his-verdict-on-alex-mitchells-permanent-transfer-to-charlton-athletic/

Luke Berry signs

Midfielder Luke Berry has joined Charlton on a two year deal from Luton Town.

Nathan Jones told Richard Cawley: 'His last appearance was in the Premier League and his next appearance is going to be for Charlton Athletic, so that’s the type of calibre that we want to attract. We’ve fought off a lot of Championship interest for Luke..'

Chris Powell comments on MBE award

Chris Powell has responded to the well-deserved award of a MBE for services to football.

“The game I love has given so much to me, but this recognition wouldn’t be possible without the support of so many people, including everyone at Links Primary School,Cranmer Middle School and Raynes Park High School."

 “I would also like to thank the staff, players and supporters at the clubs I played for, managed and coached. I am proud to have represented each and every one of them on the pitch and on the touchline. I always thought that representing my country and The FA would be the pinnacle of my career, as both a player and a coach, but this honour is beyond my expectations."

.“Additionally, I would like to thank The PFA for all their support, and for having the great honour of being their chairman. I feel it is also appropriate to give mention to the charities I work with and represent, such as Prostate Cancer UK, Show Racism the Red Card, Kick It Out (Let’s Kick Racism out of Football) and The Football Foundation, all of whom do incredible work, and I’m proud to support."

Bid for May?

Clickbait sites are suggesting that Huddersfield Town are planning a bid for Alfie May.   There may be something in it as new supremo Michael Duff was with May at Cheltenham Town.

Richard Cawley reports that Charlton have rejected the Huddersfield bid, but an enhanced offer can be expected.

Addicks may take spanner to the defence

Charlton are interested in a permanent deal for Millwall centre back Alex Mitchell who has impressed on loan signings: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/exclusive-charlton-athletic-eye-deal-for-millwall-centre-back/

Career details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Mitchell_(English_footballer)

Keeper signs

Goalkeeper Will Mannion has signed at Charlton: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c4nnw8ppv9mo

It is expected that the Addicks will seek a second keeper signing with the existing keepers yet to be offloaded.

Gone for a Burton

A Swedish group have acquired a majority stake in Burton Albion: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cq55y4l5exjo