Charlton defender up for award

At one time it looked as if the only award he would get was for moaners' scapegoat player, but now Macaulay Gillesphey is in the running for League One Player of the Month: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-defender-up-for-league-one-award/

Automatic places recede further after latest results

Birmingham City's victory at Peterborough, secured their promotion: no surprise there. Once known as the Millwall of the Midlands, Louis Mendez has tweeted that they may find the Championship a challenge for all their wealth and backing.

Wycombe secured an important 1-0 win at Huddersfield, the Kazakhs are now five points about Charlton in third.  Inconsistent Bolton lost 0-1 at home to Rotherham and dropped to 7th.

Reading are now in 6th place.   They could still be expelled from the EFL, but have been given a stay of execution.  The EFL look as if they are trying to avoid such a drastic and unfair step, although their negligence contributed to the problem in the first case.  It is another example of why football is incapable of regulating itself, whatever Baroness Brady may say.

Skipper is realistic about promotion race

Fan experts are wavering between excessive optimism and incipient pessimism about the promotion race, but Charlton captain Greg Docherty is expecting more twists and turns: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/there-is-more-than-one-way-charlton-captain-expecting-more-twists-and-turns-in-league-one-promotion-race/

I have always thought that automatic promotion was a remote possibility given the presence of three money bag clubs, but I remain optimistic about a play off place, hopefully 4th.   However, a play off place does nor equal promotion: if we get to Wembley, fortune may not shine on us for a third time.

Former Glaziers supremo linked with Charlton role

Phil Alexander has been linked with the Charlton chief executive vacancy created by the departure of Charlie Methven, according to Rick Everitt.   Richard Cawley comments, ‘Sounds as if the formerly long-serving Crystal Palace chief executive, who also filled the same role at Bristol City, is keen to get back into the game and would be interested in the role.’

Everitt believes managing director Jim Rodwell is also keen on the role, although he has been the object of some criticism by fans.

Jensen recalls the good times at Charlton

Claus Jensen recalls his years at Charlton as the best time of his career.   He praises Curbs and recalls that goal at Arsenal on the 'Black Sabbath', voted by Charlton fans as the best goal ever: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/claus-jensen-charlton-athletic-was-the-best-part-of-my-career-the-memories-are-very-strong/

Valley of Disappointment

Charlton fought back from a 0-2 deficit to draw 2-2 with Lincoln City at The Valley this afternoon, the second half  goals coming from Gillesphey and Docherty.

Charlton are now 5th, eight points off an automatic promotion place (but I never thought automatic promotion was likely).   They are one point behind Stockport in 4th.

Charlton were without two key players, Tyreece Campbell and Lloyd Jones: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/in-form-charlton-athletic-attacker-misses-lincoln-city-match-due-to-injury/

Charlton had 60 per cent of the possession and six shots on target for three to Lincoln.

Imps striker James Collins put the visitors in front after 18 minutes after he met Erik Ring's corner at the near post to head beyond Will Mannion.

Collins, a January signing from Derby, made it 2-0 in the 49th minute. Ben House chested the ball down for the striker to produce a smart turn away from marker Tom McIntyre before finding the bottom left of the net.

Macaulay Gillesphey cut the deficit eight minutes later, the Addicks centre-back sweeping in from close range after substitute Chuks Aneke had forced a botched Josh Edwards corner back towards the six-yard box.

Charlton captain Greg Docherty levelled in the 76th minute, producing a sharp left-footed finish after Edwards' long throw was only partially cleared.

Lincoln goalkeeper George Wickens made a superb save to deny Matty Godden, with Aneke also seeing an attempt drift narrowly wide of the right post as the promotion-chasing Addicks pushed hard for a winner.

After the Addicks drew level, the Imps used every opportunity to slow the game down and their keeper got a yellow card for time wasting.  He also made two excellent saves.

Shell shocked supremo Nathan Jones was in a bad mood after the game, but took responsibility for what happened, admitting faults in preparation and an excessive passivity: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-manager-keeps-his-anger-on-a-simmer-after-2-2-draw-against-lincoln-city/

Ramsgate-based fan finds his voice

He's been silent for a long time but now former fanzine editor Rick Everitt has emerged from his wardrobe to celebrate recent achievements at The Valley and declare that there are some grounds for optimism: https://www.votvonline.com/home/the-2024-25-blogs/4-4-25-jones-silences-critics-to-lead-charlton-revival/

The latest CAST survey also shows greater optimism and positivity among fans: https://www.castrust.org/2025/04/optimism-is-growing/ 

The survey did show a gradual scattering of the fan base away from the 'core area', although 12 per xcent still live in the Royal Borough of Greenwich and 62 per cent live in South London or Kent.

My guess would be that in the 1950s two-thirds lived in the boroughs of Greenwich, Woolwich and Bexley or in immediately adjacent areas such as Lewisham and Dartford.

BTW, I read in a national newspaper this week that Eltham may soon be called 'Blackheath borders!'

Will Imps be able to pull off a trick?

I had this forecast as a 2-1 win for Charlton in the Badger League at the start of the season and given our defensive strength it could well be 2-0.

The Imps have not been able to emulate the late charge towards the play-offs they pulled off last year and sitting 12th, they seem likely to stay around that area. Michael Skubala’s side are 10 points behind the play-off spots but a hefty 14 above the bottom three.   They are also mid-table in the form table.

Away from home they have won just five times, drawn six and lost nine. 

Last week they lost just 1-0 at Wycombe, having parked their combine harvesters in front of the goal, but eventually made a defensive error that let the Kazakhs in.  I expect we will see more of that at The Valley tomorrow, parking the agricultural equipment in front of the goal.   However, the likes of Campbell should be able to find a way through.

Charm merchant Lincoln captain Paudie O'Connor was shown a straight red a few minutes before the end of the game after lashing out at Joe Low.   

One must always be careful of reading results off the table, but I am reasonably confident that Fortress Valley will be rocking after 98 minutes tomorrow.

CAS Trust note that they have made little impact on top six teams: https://www.castrust.org/2025/04/charlton-face-lincoln-on-final-stretch-to-promotion-summit/

Leaburn out for rest of season

Miles Leaburn is out injured for rest of season.  It is not quite clear whether this includes any play offs, so perhaps he might have an opportunity to come off the bench at Wembley and score the winner: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-striker-miles-leaburn-to-miss-rest-of-league-one-campaign/

The best and the worst at Charlton

The latest Four Four Two has a 'best and worst at Charlton' feature written by 'lifelong Addick Paddy Pamment'.   (Who he?  Ed)

He does, reasonably enough, seem to be a bit fixated on the Curbs Premier League era.   Personally I  would have found room for some players from the 1950s and also given Lennie Lawrence an honourable mention.   But you can draw up your own lists.

Jones won't take any risks with Jones

Moaners complained about the exclusion of Lloyd Jones from the squad at Mansfield and the inclusion of Tom McIntyre in his kilt.  In fact McIntyre had a good game and Nathan Jones has explained that he does not want to take any risks with his namesake: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-boss-not-prepared-to-take-any-risks-with-key-performer/

Charlton fans chanted 'Nathan Jones' Red Army' at the end of the tricky Mansfield game.

Tough match and a 'massive victory'

Mansfield made it difficult for Charlton tonight in a tough match on the old Nottinghamshire coalfield, but the Addicks claimed all three points with a 2-1 win.  Steve Brown, never one to praise easily, hailed it as a 'massive victory'.   Mansfield had a tight defence and were capable of disrupting Charlton.

Nevertheless, a key contribution was made by players derided as 'useless' by moaners earlier in the season: Matt Godden, Tyreece Campbell and Claus Aneke.   Godden was seen earlier in the season as an inadequate replacement for Alfie May, Campbell was often scapegoated and Aneke was supposed to be  a crock.

Conor Coventry put in a real shift and displayed some skill.   A calf injury kept Lloyd Jones out.   Tom McIntyre did a good job of replacing him.

Godden opened the scoring in the first half with the home side equalising on 40 minutes.  Mansfield had a tight defence, but  Tyreece Campbell then put Charlton ahead on 71 minutes.  Campbell was applauded by the Addickted after he had to be taken off following a knock.

Mansfield then threw every piece of discarded mining equipment they could find at Charlton, but the Addicks stayed firm.  In the five minutes added on an under pressure Aneke put in a strong shot from distance which the keeper had to tip over the bar, giving Charlton two corners.

Charlton were impressive for the first half-hour and almost went ahead after two minutes, Thierry Small heading a good chance wide from Tyreece Campbell's cross.  Christy Pym was down well to save from Macaulay Gillesphey after 13 minutes.

But in the 22nd minute Louis Reed's loose pass at the back intended for his keeper rolled straight to Matty Godden who made no mistake in tucking away his gift.

Stags went up a gear and after Reed had drilled inches wide in the 29th minute they were level after 40 minutes.  Baily Cargill's cross was headed out to Matty Craig who smashed an unstoppable rising finish home from 16 yards off the underside of the bar.

Soon after, Will Mannion had to get down to deny Caylan Vickers as Stags ended the half on a high.

Josh Edwards saw his shot blocked on the line on the hour after a scramble from a corner.  But Charlton noses were in front again with 16 minutes to go as Tennai Watson found Campbell to his right and he beat Stephen McLaughlin before tucking a low 15-yard finish inside the near post.

Charlton defended well under late pressure before Pym saved superbly from a powerful Chuks Aneke shot in added time.

It was also a win for Mrs Brown as with hubby off in the wastes of Notts she was able to load the dishwasher without complaints about the left side not being utilised.

Wycombe Wanderers could only manage a 0-0 draw at home to Shrewsbury, but Stockport beat Stevenage 3-0.   Huddersfield lost 1-0 at Lincoln and Bolton made it into the top six.

Clough says he is facing a different Charlton

Looks like Nigel Clough is taking the opportunity of getting an alibi in early before tomorrow night's game between Mansfield and Charlton: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/mansfield-boss-nigel-clough-charlton-athletic-are-different-animal-to-team-we-faced-at-valley/

These midweek away matches can be decisive in a season.   I had this one down as a 3-1 Charlton win at the beginning of the season, but I would be content with a one goal margin.

Mansfield's recent form has not been bad, they have lost just one match in six, although three were drawn.  They had done slightly better away than at home and have scored just 19 goals at home, one of the lower totals in the division.   They are 10th in the form table and Charlton are 4th.

Mansfield won 2-1 at Bristol Rovers on Saturday, but that had aa much to do with errors by the Gasheads as anything.

Berry, Campbell and Godden were all in the League One team of the week at the weekend.

Charlton thrash play off rivals

Charlton beat Huddersfield 4-0 at The Valley this afternoon and a key role was played by Tyreece Campbell.   Until recently a target of moaners, who could not recognise a player in development, he now has his own song; 'Tyreece Campbell running down the wing, scoring goals, makes the Charlton sing.'

Campbell has thanked Nathan Jones for his confidence in him and converting him from a winger to a striker: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/tyreece-campbell-thanks-charlton-athletic-manager-nathan-jones-for-his-belief-in-him/

In his take on the match, Louis Mendez also selects Campbell as star man: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/the-lowdown-on-charlton-athletic-4-huddersfield-town-0-tyreece-campbell-grabs-brace-in-dominant-display/

Charlton were excellent: bright, positive and pretty clinical when it mattered. Huddersfield were none of those things.

This was a match between 4th and 6th but on this showing there's only one team who will be playing beyond 3 May, and they wear red and white.

Matty Godden's flashing header after 30 seconds set the tone, Tyreece Campbell found the bottom corner either side of half-time, and Greg Docherty's thunderbolt  (later ruled to be an own goal) found the net via the bar and the back of unfortunate keeper Lee Nicholls, who is the only reason the margin of victory wasn't wider.

Chuks Aneke found the back of the net from distance, but was ruled offside.

Attendance 17,278.

Never mind a partial eclipse of the sun, Nathan Jones was over the moon at his team's performance: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-after-charlton-blow-huddersfield-away-you-wont-find-a-better-league-one-performance-than-that/

Leaburn, Edwards out injured

Miles Leaburn will not be available against Huddersfield tomorrow. Nathan Jones: "It's not a matter of days, it's a weeks one. It gives someone else an opportunity. We have got to manage Miles slightly differently to other players - he is young and had an injury before."

Josh Edwards is another missing with a groin injury. Nathan Jones: "He is a lot closer than he was a week ago. He has done some training and we'll assess and see how he is." Dan Kanu rolled his ankle with the U21s.  Jones said, "We can't rush it."

Huddersfield are 7th from bottom in the form table, Charlton are 4th.   Huddersfield's home and away records are symmetrical in terms of wins and defeats (nine and six), although they have scored more goals away (29).

Interim Huddersfield coach Jon Worthington has dismissed speculation that the game could be a dress rehearsal for a play off contest: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/you-can-think-about-that-huddersfield-interim-boss-quizzed-on-potential-play-off-dress-rehearsal-at-charlton-athletic/

CAS Trust remind us that the Terriers have won the last five games against us: https://www.castrust.org/2025/03/no-walk-in-the-park-against-terriers/

I am sticking with my beginning of the season prediction of a 2-1 win.

Jensen returns

Claus Jensen will be at The Valley on Saturday and still follows the club.  He has great memories of this time at Charlton where he played 126 games: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/i-still-follow-the-club-ex-charlton-midfielder-claus-jensen-excited-by-valley-return-on-saturday/

He could certainly score from distance.   What was your favourite Jensen goal?   It may seem an odd choice, but I remember a belter at Leeds where we lost 5-2 but he momentarily silenced the home crowd.

Wrexham halve losses and see big revenue increase

Wrexham's latest accounts show that revenue has surged to just under £27 million, an increase of 155 per cent.  The club still lost £2.7m, but that represented a halving of the previous year's figure.  Loans of £15m by the original owners have been repaid with new minority owners: https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wrexham-ryan-reynolds-rob-mcelhenney-31286635

Ex Addick praised for international coaching role

In the interval of tonight's international match between North Macedonia and Wales, the BBC Wales studio pundits praised the achievements of Chris Gunter as a Wales coach.  He has been in charge of the under 19s who won 3-1 earlier in the evening.

Gunter played for Charlton for two years, also playing for Wales internationally.  He was the first player to achieve 100 caps for Wales, a record subsequently overtaken by Gareth Bale.

He was at Charlton towards the end of his career and was often the target of moaners.   After his two years at The Valley, he had a brief spell with Johnnie Jackson and the Wombles before joining Wales.

His real talent may be coaching.

Berry refuses to be downbeat after loss

Most Charlton fans are prepared to accept that yesterday's defeat was a bad day at the office and that is pretty much the message from Luke Berry: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/luke-berry-refusing-to-be-downbeat-despite-charltons-3-0-loss-at-peterborough/

Of course, given that we are talking about Charlton fans so there has been an outpouring of pessimism and negativity from some quarters.

There was, I think, a failure to recognise how resurgent Peterborough are.   We couldn't maintain the initial intense press (although it nearly produced an early goal) and, as Berry points out, the home side were strong on the counter attack.

We just need to learn the lessons for an important home fixture against Huddersfield.

Charlton stay 4th after loss to in form Posh

Charlton remain 4th in the table tonight after Stockport lost 1-0 at Wrexham despite losing 3-0 at Peterborough.  My start of the season prediction of a 3-1 defeat doesn't look so bad.

I warned in my preview of excessive optimism on the part of Charlton fans.   We tried to press too hard in the first half, giving the home side the opportunity to have moments, starting with an indirect free kick in the penalty area.

Charlton almost led in the third minute when a looping header by Lloyd Jones from Luke Berry's corner came off the bar.

But following the indirect free-kick from Mothersille being smothered, Peterborough took the lead after 38 minutes when Kwame Poku's ball back into the area was headed in, for his first goal for the club, by captain Hughes.

Five minutes later, the Posh doubled their lead as Ricky-Jade Jones broke away through the middle before passing to Odoh, who bent in a fine finish after cutting inside.

After wasting a succession of chances, including a glaring miss by Odoh, the hosts had the third goal their performance deserved in the 79th minute when Cian Hayes' ball across the area was converted by Mothersille.

Nathan Jones commented: 'When we were on top we didn't score and we gifted them the first goal. They are a real threat on the transition and we didn't defend that well enough.'

Richard Cawley, who had ventured outside the M25, noted at half time: 'Charlton have had 24 touches in the opposition box - Peterborough had nine - but not been able to make those moments count. Thierry Small's shot in the 43rd minute one of the few saves that Steer has had to make.'

Peterborough are a form side

The season hasn't quite turned out as expected for Peterborough United and a lot of their energies seem to be directed towards a 'brand evolution project'.   The Posh are currently 18th in the table, although they are 4th in the form table (Charlton are 1st).   At home they have won seven, drawn five and lost six, although they have conceded almost as many goals as they scored (32-28).

Peterborough have been very much a yo-yo side in recent years and at the beginning of the season Four Four Two forecast a 5th place finish.  The fan commentator forecast 4th hailing manager Darren Ferguson as 'the second coming'.   Quite what went wrong is unclear, although Ferguson thinks it is a 'mentality' issue.

Charlton fans seem to have moved from excessive pessimism to excessive optimism.  At least the 'we'll be playing in League Two next season' have crept back under their stones.   I must admit I didn't think about the play offs when I arranged to marry again on May 9th.

Birmingham City have the title nailed on and the other automatic promotion place is likely to go to one of the moneybags clubs, Hollywood owned Wrexham or Wycombe, owned by a Kazakh billionaire.

I think Charlton will make the play offs, but we are likely to face either Wrexham or Wycombe, Stockport County and either Bolton or Huddersfield.   Reading or Leyton Orient could make it, but I am sceptical. (Reading are now in danger of being thrown out of the EFL by April).

Remember we can be knocked out in the semi-final of the play offs (as happened against Swindon) and the fact that we have won at Wembley twice before does not mean we would be third time lucky.

I had Peterborough away down as 3-1 defeat at the start of the season, but a 2-2 draw now seems a better prediction.

The CAS Trust preview also observes that Peterborough are in form, noting the return of their leading goal scorer after a long lay off: https://www.castrust.org/2025/03/two-and-a-half-thousand-go-to-posh/

From zero to hero

Not so long ago Macaulay Gillesphey was a scapegoat player for many, but now Nathan Jones praises his defensive strength and aggression: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/i-berate-him-more-than-i-big-him-up-charlton-boss-jones-on-defensive-asset/

It's ironic in a way: formerly 'useless' manager praises 'useless' player.

Jones also praises Charlton's defensive strength and results surely justify this claim.

Charlton march on

It was seven wins on the spin for Charlton as they beat Wigan 2-1 at The Valley this afternoon, although they lost their clean sheet record as the visitors scored in the 84th minute and set up a nerve wracking finish.  Even so, it was a Lowe point for the new Lactics supremo.   

Charlton's two goals were scored by Matty Godden in a dominant first half.  For the opening goal Ramsay showed good strength on the byline to keep the ball, his cross sees a Wigan player's clearance hit a team-mate and Godden spins to finish from close range.

For the second Berry's free-kick was nodded across the face of goal by Gillesphey and it was a simple close-range tap in for Godden.

Charlton almost added a third within seconds of the restart, with only a double save from Tickle keeping out first Tyreece Campbell and then Godden for what would have been his hat-trick.

And only a fine defensive header from Jason Kerr diverted Gillesphey's goalbound shot finding the top corner.

Despite a brilliant save from Will Mannion to deny Ronan Darcy, half time substitute Chris Sze tapped home from close range on the rebound to give the away side an unlikely lifeline.

Charlton remain 4th.  The game between Wycombe and Wrexham was suspended at 0-0 after a medical emergency in the Wrexham end.

Fans chanted 'Championship, we're on our way'.   Well, maybe.

Missing striker mystery solved

Gassan Adahme has not been seen in an Addicks line up for 13 games and there were rumours that he was practising his shooting skills against a barn door in Kent.

However, Nathan Jones has solved the mystery, at least partially.   Apparently, Ahadme has been ill, although the nature of the illness has not been disclosed and its effects seem to be rather odd: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-boss-addresses-squad-absence-of-summer-signing-gassan-ahadme/

The Sparrows Lane medical team does not seem to have had a ready answer, although perhaps an old fashioned remedy like syrup of figs would remove any blockages.

A sports psychologist commented: 'Sometimes players develop a fear of scoring, for example they may imagine that the net will envelop and smother them or the crossbar will fall on them if they score.'

Troika in charge of Wigan on Saturday

Wigan have appointed former Preston boss Ryan Lowe as their new supremo, but he will not be in charge at The Valley on Saturday when a trio of three will be in charge of the Lactics: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/wigan-announce-new-head-coach-before-charlton-clash/

Quite how this works I don't know: perhaps one is in charge of the defence, another looks after midfield and the third tells the strike 'force' where the net is (Wigan have scored fewer goals than any other team in League One).

Away from home, Wigan have won five, drawn six and lost six.   They are mid-table in the form table. My Badger League prediction was 2-0 Charlton win.

It sounds as big a nightmare as having a fans' committee in the dugout to tell the manager where he is getting it wrong.

Richard Cawley's talking points arising from the win at Crawley: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/talking-points-from-charltons-1-0-win-at-crawley-town-jones-wants-his-players-going-flat-out-not-flat-white-in-league-one-promotion-charge/

Clean sheet specialists

Charlton went to 4^th in League One as Thierry Small's first-half goal gave the Addicks a narrow League One victory at struggling Crawley to consolidate their play-off push with a ninth win in the last 12 games.   Bolton and Wrexham both lost.

Crawley improved somewhat after the break but lacked a cutting-edge up front.

Charlton captain Lloyd Jones had a dangerous low cross intercepted early on with Tyreece Campbell in a threatening position before Crawley striker Will Swan fired off target at the other end after a strong run by Panutche Camara.

The recalled Alex Gilbert, arriving late inside the area, had a shot blocked for Charlton, having earlier put a fierce 20-yard chance inches over.

The Addicks made the breakthrough after 37 minutes a Gilbert assist found Small to the right of goal after Crawley had failed to clear and his powerful close-range shot gave goalkeeper Jojo Wollacott no chance.

Wollacott was well positioned to save a goal-bound chance from Karoy Anderson shortly after the interval.  And the Crawley keeper was in action again to save drive from Gilbert from the edge of the area.

Campbell came close to doubling Charlton's lead when he put an angled shot just wide after showing blistering pace.

Charlton's victory saw them climb above Stockport into fourth place and they now boast 17 clean sheets in the league.

Nathan Jones said it was 'a very tricky game but a wholly professional performance', singling out Lloyd Jones for praise: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-boss-jones-on-really-professional-win-over-crawley-town/

What airport workers are reading on the night shift: https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/crawley-town-0-charlton-athletic-1-reds-winless-run-continues

Can we lay the ghost of the season's low point?

The home defeat to Crawley was a low point of Charlton's season and the 'Jones out now' crowd thought they might have at last got their man.  But now it is Crawley who look like playing in League Two next season.

However, such a fixture against a side fighting for survival is not going to be easy and Nathan Jones gives his perspective: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-looks-ahead-to-crawley-clash-as-charlton-have-chance-to-lay-ghosts-of-seasons-low-point-to-rest/

Crawley are 2nd from bottom in the form table and Charlton are 2nd.   At home they have won just four matches, drawing six and losing seven. 

Last Saturday a last minute goal saw them draw 1-1 with Reading, but they have been hit by injuries and suspensions.  Manager Rob Elliot (for it is he) said. 'We are struggling to put bodies on the pitch.'

I am perhaps unwisely sticking with my original Badger League forecast of a 2-0 win for Charlton.

Methven packs his tent

Charlie Methven has stood down as Charlton's CEO, saying that the club is now on an upward trajectory: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cn4yjp7v9pxo

Reports from SE7 suggest that the streets around The Valley remain calm with no sign of fans rending shirts or returning their season tickets.

Normally in such circumstances one would use the words the cinema newsreels applied to the departure of Neville Chamberlain as prime minister in 1940, 'Thanks for all you tried to do.'   But I was never quite clear what Methven did, although he could talk the talk.

More here: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlie-methven-leaving-role-as-charlton-athletic-chief-executive-officer/

The club is advertising the position.   CAST give their views here: https://www.castrust.org/2025/03/charlie-methven-departs/

Another clean sheet as Charlton secure away point

I would have taken a draw at Stockport before the game and Charlton remain 5th.

County's Kyle Wootton came closest to breaking the deadlock by striking the bar after half-time in a contest which lacked final-third ruthlessness.

Miles Leaburn fired wide under pressure inside three minutes for the Addicks, while Callum Camps' Stockport penalty appeal after five minutes was turned down by referee Martin Coy following an incident with Thierry Small.

Charlton could have gone ahead before 20 minutes but Luke Berry hooked over from Josh Edwards' dangerous cross at the back post.

Immediately after half-time, Wootton forced a superb diving save from Will Mannion who maintained the deadlock.

Will Collar's deflected effort landed wide as County stepped up the pressure and Wootton struck the bar shortly after as Stockport sought the opener.

Camps curled over on 70 minutes and substitute Benony Breki Andresson could not connect with a ball across the face of goal from Collar, while Charlton's Macaulay Gillesphey fizzed a header wide before full-time.

Louis Mendez describes it as 'a battling point for the Addicks and a good one': https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/the-lowdown-on-stockport-county-charlton-athletic/

With the team securing 16 clean sheets all season, Nathan Jones says that he would have taken the result all day long: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-hails-charlton-athletics-outstanding-points-return-this-week-after-stockport-stalemate/

Jones explained why he brought on Chuks Anke rather than Matty Godden as a substitute: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-manager-nathan-jones-explains-decision-making-behind-striker-substitution-at-stockport/

Conor Coventry says the players are aiming to get higher up the table: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-midfielder-conor-coventry-as-addicks-remain-entrenched-in-top-six-were-aiming-higher/

Charlton and Ademola Lookman

Turn the corner in the corridor leading to the sports hall at St Thomas the Apostle School and Sixth Form College (STAC) and, almost hidden away out of sight, you might miss the framed, match-worn Charlton Athletic shirt.   The display also includes a photo of a young Ademola Lookman.

The reigning African footballer of the year is, without question, the most successful player to emerge from STAC, a state-funded all-boys Catholic school in Southwark, south-east London. Yet Lookman’s is just one of several jerseys displayed on that wall, illustrating the sporting achievements of so many former pupils.

He achieved excellent academic results at STAC, with four A*s and five As in his GCSEs, before being picked up late, at 17, by Charlton. He rose rapidly through their academy to the first team and made 49 appearances before a Premier League move to Everton at age 19. A further 48 appearances on Merseyside led to a 2019 transfer to Germany’s RB Leipzig and subsequent Premier League loans with Fulham and Leicester City, until he settled on a permanent deal with Atalanta in August 2022.

“Ademola was academically driven because there was not even a thought back then about him taking up a scholarship let alone a professional contract,” PE supremo Reynolds commented.

Big test at Stockport for Addicks

Nathan Jones has no injury worries ahead of tomorrow's crucial clash at Stockport Couity: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-boss-has-no-injury-concerns-over-key-man-as-he-provides-update-ahead-of-stockport-clash/

Stockport is the only ground I have visited with both Charlton (twice) and my non-league team which shows how far the Hatters have fallen and risen.   The CAS Trust preview also focuses on their rise from the National League North: https://www.castrust.org/2025/03/campbell-fit-for-stockport/

Their fans were a boisterous lot at Harbury Lane, one of them getting on to the pitch and pouring a pint of beer over the then Brakes keeper, the Barmy Binman.  

The fourth place Hatters have a strong record at home, having won eleven, lost three and drawn three.

Every Stockport fan of the last 25 years was brought up hearing stories about what happened in the 1997-98 season, when their club finished eighth in what is now the Championship — their highest-ever league position — as neighbours City, then auditioning to be known as English football’s Slapstick XI, fell through the same division’s trapdoor into the old Third Division.

Yet there were also times when Stockport strayed dangerously close to slipping off the radar altogether before Mark Stott, a local businessman, launched the 2020 takeover that changed everything. In the words of club president Steve Bellis, it was the day Stockport “won the lottery”.

A recent feature in the Times  — “Why Stockport, Greater Manchester, is one of the best places to live” — named it among the 12 most desirable towns in England for first-time homebuyers.

“Stockport has engineered a remarkable reinvention from a standard former mill town into a funky, family-friendly alternative to Manchester’s Northern Quarter,” the feature read. “This is where the avocado-brunching millennials move when they have a Lejoux pushchair and are faced with the school run but still want to live a fashionable life.”

In 2005, it was ranked 12th in a book called Crap Towns: The 50 Worst Places To Live In The UK, described as a “hellhole” where “entertainment includes being glassed in one of the many pubs” or “avoiding being stabbed on the infamous 192 bus”.

Edgeley Park has also been rejuvenated with a level of care and attention that simply did not exist when Simon Inglis, the author and historian, wrote in his 1987 book The Football Grounds Of Britain that it “seemed on its last legs”.

The challenges are obvious when there are more than 20 professional clubs within a one-hour radius. But there is also plenty of evidence that many football fans want something different to the matchday experience the Premier League offers.

Manager of the month nominee tries to stay grounded

Nathan Jones warns tbat no one at Charlton is getting carried away after the recent run of good results.  https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-on-keeping-charlton-athletic-grounded-despite-meteoric-rise-up-league-one-table/

Unfortunately, Jones could fall prey to the Manager of the Month curse: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-boss-nathan-jones-up-for-february-motm-award/

One from Gillesphey is enough

Charlton strengthened their grip on a League One play-off place as Macauley Gillesphey's winner sealed a victory over Barnsley which moves them up to fifth in the table.

The Addicks made the decisive breakthrough in the 12th minute when defender Gillesphey scored for the second successive match to take his goal tally for the season to four, confounding moaners who had scapegoated him as useless.

Gillesphey has said that Luke Berry normally takes free kicks, but he fancied this one: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/macaulay-gillesphey-admits-he-doesnt-practice-free-kicks-often-after-set-piece-winner-against-barnsley/

Tyreece Campbell was fouled on the edge of the box, with the centre-back's free-kick going underneath a jumping Barnsley wall and squeezing past goalkeeper Jackson Smith.

Davis Keillor-Dunn had a big chance to level soon after but – after wriggling free in the penalty box – the Tykes attacker's attempt was kept out by the legs of Will Mannion.

The game was largely devoid of clear chances until the closing stages.   Smith dived full stretch to turn Conor Coventry's 77th-minute shot around his right post.

Luca Connell drilled an attempt narrowly wide as Barnsley struggled to break down the hosts.

Smith made another big save in the 85th minute to deny Addicks substitute Miles Leaburn, who had been threaded through on the left of the box by Campbell.

Nathan Jones admitted that Charlton were not at their fluent best but was nevertheless delighted with the result: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-delighted-as-charlton-athletic-extend-excellent-home-form-with-win-over-barnsley-to-climb-to-5th/

The Barnsley Chronicle admitted: 'The hosts took an early lead then were the better side and could have won by more, with the Reds offering very little after the opening exchanges.'

Physical Barnsley confident of three points

Barnsley are confident of taking all three points at The Valley this evening: https://www.barnsleychronicle.com/article/31222/reds-hunt-4th-straight-win-at-in-form-charlton

Charlton are second in the form table, bur the Tykes have the best away record in League One, ten games won in all.  In the process they have conceded 21 goals but scored 25.

Charlton may be in 6th place, but there are four teams chasing them: Bolton, Leyton Orient, Reading and Barnsley.   However, they are only two points behind Huddersfield in 5th and four points behind Stockport in 4th.

Barnsley won 4-3 against Lincoln City at home last Saturday  In all they have conceded 47 goals in League One compared with just 31 for Charlton.

Head Tykes coach Darrell Clarke bemoaned poor decision-making in the last 15 minutes which he said was the story of their season.  'I never feel I can relax with our boys.  I have to be on at them all the time.'  He said that the team was a little depleted with injuries and suspensions, but was pleased with the physical nature of his team's play.  Expect northern cloggers tonight and no protection from the referee.

My Badger League prediction was 2-1 and I will stick with that with some nervousness.

Tunnel echoes to Charlton cheers

The Blackwall Tunnel will be echoing to Charlton cheers tonight after two goals in time added on gave the Addicks 2-1 victory over Leyton Orient.  Charlton are now 6th in the table.

Orient went ahead in the second half with a 30 yard volley that gave Mannion in the Addicks goal no chance.  Then on 92 minutes much criticised Macaulay Gillesphey scored the equaliser with a header from a corner.   On 97 minutes Kayne Ramsay repeated the same manoeuvre.   Both corners were taken by substitute Gilbert/

Charlton are now good at set pices: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/i-had-him-in-a-headlock-at-half-time-nathan-jones-on-charlton-athletics-set-piece-strength-after-orient-comeback/

The first period was generally bossed by two resilient defences, with real chances restricted a minimum, but Brown put the hosts ahead on 52 minutes.

Two minutes after the opening goal, Orient striker Charlie Kelman was denied by Will Mannion and that miss was to prove costly for the home side.

Jones jumped into the crowd at the end of the match, having suffered some foul mouthed abuse from Orient supporters: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-full-time-scenes-at-orient-were-emotional-after-fan-abuse-during-charlton-comeback/

More valuable analysis from Louis Mendez here:https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/the-lowdown-on-leyton-orient-1-charlton-athletic-2-added-time-addicks-seal-enormous-victory-in-race-for-top-six/

Pratley emerges from ice to give interview

Darren Pratley turns April in 40 and is still playing football: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/exclusive-interview-with-charlton-athletic-play-off-winner-darren-pratley-still-going-strong-at-leyton-orient/

Pratley had his critics at The Valley and said that it is a hard place to play when the crowd turns against you.  

Needless to say, tomorrow's Blackwall Tunnel derby with Orient is a crucial one for Charlton.  Orient have been something of a surprise package this season.  Four Four Two saw them finishing 17th, saying they could be short on genuine firepower up front.   The fan commentator forecast 9th and called for Nathan Jones to be brought in as manager.

CAS Trust draws attention to their sensible recruitment of loan players: https://www.castrust.org/2025/02/orienteering/

Two weeks ago they were tested in a 3-2 home win against out of form Lincoln City.   They then went down 2-1 at Bolton with manager Wellens complaining that his team looked slow, tired and lethargic. Taken with their 1-0 defeat at Birmingham midweek this suggests they are not invincible.

Nevertheless, they are still 5th in the form table, just two places behind Charlton.   At home they have won nine, but drawn three and lost five.

I have this down as a 1-1 draw in the Badger prediction league.

Grecians go away from Valley without any gifts

Charlton are now behind Leyton Orient (who lost at Bolton) only on goal difference after they beat Exeter City 3-0 at The Valley.   It was five wins on the spin in SE7 and nine unbeaten and also the sixth clean sheet out of seven.

Exeter City were outclassed as they slipped to a one-sided defeat.   Goals midway through either half before a late third saw the Grecians beaten 3-0 in a game where they never got going.

Charlton went ahead midway through the first half when a free-kick was turned into his own net by Angus MacDonald. The Addicks were totally in control but found creating chances difficult – but Karoy Anderson missed a sitter when he couldn’t score with a header from inside the six yard box.

Two much criticised players put the game beyond doubt. Tyreece Campbell though doubled the lead in the 68^th minute when he curled home a smart finish from the edge of the box as the hosts finally made their dominance count. Miles Leaburn made it three late on as his individual finish sealed the victory.

Charlton had the first chance inside two minutes when Campbell got on the end of a long ball, but fired wide when he should have scored. A late offside flag partially spared his blushes for the miss. The Addicks had a good shout for a penalty when Joel Colwill appeared to clip Anderson in the box, but referee Andy Davies waved the appeals away.

The Grecians’ first effort saw Ryan Trevitt force Will Mannion into a smart save from a free-kick. But it was a rare foray forward in the early stages at The Valley as the hosts dominated, and in the 20^th minute, they took the lead. Luke Berry swung in a free-kick from the right and Angus MacDonald in his attempt to clear the bouncing ball was the unlucky man who turned it into own net, with nothing Joe Whitworth could do about it.

Berry and Campbell then saw close-range efforts blocked as Charlton looked to extend their lead. Anderson saw a header cleared off the line by Alex Hartridge after a well-worked free-kick as it was one-way traffic for the large part. With 31 minutes gone, alleged drunk driver Niskanen, who had been booked, was replaced by Ryan Woods.

The pattern of the game didn’t change though, with Charlton on top with all the play around the edge of City’s own box, but Nathan Jones’ men weren’t creating much in the way of chances for all the control they had. Campbell poked wide in stoppage-time after a Thierry Small cross which should have made it two at the break. As it was, it was just 1-0.

Campbell picked up the ball 30 yards from goal, the defenders backed off him, and from the edge of the box, he curled the finish into the far corner to double the lead.

In the 84th minute, any faint hope City had was ended with Charlton’s third. Leaburn, off the bench, picked up the ball outside the box and drove into it. He produced two pieces of skill to wrong foot Hartridge and MacDonald, before slotting the finish in off the post.

Six minutes of stoppage-time were added-on, but it was all an irrelevance with the result long since put beyond doubt as City were comfortably beaten. 

 

Exeter think they have momentum

It's a 'must win, should win' match for Charlton against Exeter City tomorrow with promotion rivals scoring midweek victories.   I have it down as a 3-1 win the Badger prediction league, but my performance there is mid-table.

The Grecians admit that it will be a 'tricky trip', but think they have momentum even if one of their players has ended up in the arms of Devon & Cornwall Police: https://www.exetertoday.co.uk/news/sport/1734559/exeter-city-battle-on-amid-off-field-turmoil.html

Exeter have won five games away from home, lost eight and drawn just two.   Their 1-0 away win at Cambridge last Saturday was their first win since Boxing Day.  After last weekend they were third from bottom in the form table while Charlton were fourth.

Ashley Maynard-Brewer will not be available after he picked up a groin injury at Birmingham.  Nathan Jones told London News Online: 'You don’t necessarily have a number one – you need a goalkeeper department that’s really strong. We needed to improve it slightly, which we did. We’re constantly looking to improve every part of the squad.  

We have good competition. Ashley was probably unlucky not to start the season, but we brought Will in and he was excellent in pre-season. Neither one of them have deserved to be left out in any way – their performance levels have been very good.'

The CAS Trust preview reminds us that one time Addick Josh Magennis is in fine goal scoring form: https://www.castrust.org/2025/02/exeter-a-story-of-travel-from-the-home-of-one-brazil-to-another/

Curbs: Parker sale denied us Europe

A recent edition of Four Four Two has a double page spread interview with Alan Curbishley.

He states: 'After that first promotion to the Premier League, we made a joint decision that of whatever money we took from that season, a third would go on the squad, a third on the stadium and a third would be back-up money if we got relegated.  You see teams relegated from the Premier League having a mass exodus because they can't afford the players' contracts.   That plan meant we didn't have to sell anyone.  We could invest in the squad and we came back up as champions.'

'All of the players we brought to the club had a point to prove.  We never bought the ready-made Premier League player until later.   It ended up working to our detriment a little bit because once we got to that 40 point safety mark, we tailed off from some really good positions.'

'The closest we came to Europe was in 2003/4.  I'm sure we would have finished in the top four or five if Scott Parker hadn't joined Chelsea in January.  We got £12 million, but so late in the window I couldn't spend it.'

Curbs says he didn't get the interviews the other boys did for the England job in 2006, they were interviewed in a private house, he was interviewed in the FA offices because of a timing clash with a FA Cup replay.

In terms of other high profile jobs, Curbs said that he was in a position at Charlton where he was in charge of the whole football club.  He didn't think he was ready for a bigger club, he needed more experience.  He had one year left on his contract and has just been interviewed for the England job.  He wanted his contract to run out - but we all know what happened.

Addicks edged out of play off places

Charlton were edged out of the play off places on goal difference after their 1-0 defeat at Birmingham this afternoon.  It is no shame to be narrowly defeated by the league leaders, although they were dominant in the game.

Nathan Jones thought that his side lacked spark and sharpness: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-charlton-athletic-lacked-spark-during-defeat-at-birmingham-city/

There was some controversy in the game when Blues fans thought that Maynard-Brewer had come outside his area to pick up the ball.  The referee didn't think so and  Blues boss Chris Davies got a yellow card for his protests.  At least part of the ball was on the line and therefore inside the area,.  Nathan Jones said that he thought that Birmingham made far too much of this: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/that-was-mental-nathan-jones-provides-view-on-ashley-maynard-brewer-handball-accusation-at-birmingham/

The winning goal came after Ethan Laird flicked on a goal-kick from Ryan Allsop and Stansfield took it past Conor Coventry on the halfway line before lashing it into the roof of the net from the edge of the box.

Kieran Dowell almost made it 2-0 but his free-kick grazed a post and Willum Willumsson's curling shot from the edge of the box flew inches wide.  Tomoki Iwata was denied by Maynard-Brewer when his shot was saved.

Charlton were forced to replace the injured Maynard-Brewer with Will Mannion at half-time.   The Australian has a suspected groin injury.

The only on-target effort from the Addicks came in the 76th minute when Daniel Kanu's shot was saved by Allsop.

Captain Greg Docherty dissects Charlton's performance, saying that we lacked 'killer instinct': https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-skipper-greg-docherty-we-lacked-killer-instinct-in-defeat-at-birmingham-city/

Charlton are Scott free

There have been no reports of Charlton fans rending their shirts or returning their season tickets after it was reported that technical director Andy Scott had left the club: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/andy-scott-leaves-technical-director-role-at-charlton-athletic/

Indeed, many fans took the view that rather than adding value to the team the overall balance was negative.

Blues prepare injuries alibi

Birmingham City are complaining about five injuries in case tomorrow's game against Charlton does not deliver the expected three points: https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-injury-news-charlton-29851911

The top three clubs in League One have really serious money behind them, Birmingham City most of all. Their owners seem to have good judgment and a strategic vision.

I watched them play Newcastle United on television and there is no doubt that they have some quality players.  Alfie May fans should note that he played only a cameo role.

2,000 Addicks are making the trip to Birmingham and there would have been more if the Blues had been prepared to release more tickets.  The odds must favour the Millwall of the Midlands to end Charlton's unbeaten run, but the Addicks are in confident mood and a draw is possible.

Apart from the super Salopians, we are the only team to have beaten them in the league this season: https://www.castrust.org/2025/02/whats-it-all-about-alfie/

'Useless' player scores late winner

It looked liked being a valley of frustration at Charlton tonight until Gillesphey, a favourite target of moaners, scored the winning goal against Peterborough with a pinpoint header.

As is often the case, Charlton did not start particularly well with the visitors trying out a different formation.  

A shot from outside the area by Luke Berry hit the post after 32 minutes for Charlton, before Peterborough keeper Jed Steer had to save from Matty Godden at point blank range a minute later.

The game kicked into life in an amazing eight-minute spell. After increased Charlton pressure, the visitors were undone by a penalty after 54 minutes. Sam Hughes handled in the box, with Godden converting from the spot.  Steve Brown thought ir wasn't a penalty and was upbraided by his nemesis from Canada, Brown retorting that his critic had never played football.

It looked to become an awful evening for Peterborough when charm merchant Fernandez was dismissed after 58 minutes for lunging at Thierry Small.

However, they hit back three minutes later from a Malik Mothersille spot kick, after Ricky-Jade Jones was upended in the area.   Darren Ferguson was indignant that Ramsay was not sent off, but the double jeopardy rule did not apply.

The Peterborough resolve was finally broken when Gillesphey headed home an 88th-minute corner delivered by Alex Gilbert.

Nathan Jones admitted that it was more hairy than he would liked it to have been, but praised the mentality of Charlton's players who didn't give up: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-praises-charlton-athletic-mentality-as-they-strike-late-again-to-climb-to-5th-in-league-one/

Another key game tonight

At the end of the season midweek winter matches often turn out to have had a decisive impact on the final outcome.  Three points off Peterborough tonight are vital if Charlton are to qualify for the play offs.

Yo-yo club Peterborough were expected to be competing for promotion, but things have not gone to plan and they are 20th in the table and in a similar position in the form table.  Charlton are 4th in the form table.  Posh's away record is particularly poor, having won two, drawn two and lost nine.   They have conceded 29 goals away from home.  

Holders of the Vertu Trophy, Posh did manage to battle their way through to the semi-finals last week, beating Cheltenham Town 3-2.

Although I am hopeful that the Addicks can take three points tonight, Peterborough can be very physical and referees generally show little interest for fear of being seen as a 'homer'.

Magazine pays tribute to Lennie Lawrence

Lennie Lawrence has stepped back as Hartlepool United coach and taken the No.2 role: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/ce3lgy17q0ko

However, before this became known Four Four Two published a two page tribute to the Charlton legend in their March issue.   The survival of the club owes much to him.

Lawrence notes that Hartepool asked him to do the job for a month, just like Charlton did 40 years ago. 

The 77-year old says that  'Man management remains the most important thing and there are aspects of it that are the same as they were 30 years ago.   Others are different (he cites social media)and you need to embrace that.'

Lawrence says that he was not particularly abrasive or confrontational back in the day and 'these approaches now wouldn't hold you in good stead.   To use a modern buzzword, you have to show empathy towards players as well as being demanding and having standards - you've got to understand them and help them.'

'Sometimes it's not what you say but how you say it - that's the key, there has to be mutual respect.  The first thing I said to the players when I took Charlton over 40 years ago was "I promise I'll be honest with you and I'll try to be fair - I can't always be fair, but I'll try to be honest -that's the starting point.'

Charlton move into play off places

Charlton moved into 6th place in League One after a 2-0 win over in form Stevenage at The Valley this afternoon.   Bolton and Reading both drew in their games and in any case but had an inferior goal difference. (Bolton won 4-3 in the 96th minute but Charlton remained 6th). Leyton Orient were entertaining Manchester City so do have a game in hand.

There was some sloppy passing by the Addicks in the early exchanges, Stevenage were the better side and Ashley Maynard-Brewer had to race out to foil Louis Appere, who attempted to go around him.  Jamie Reid also drilled into the side-netting from a tight angle for Stevenage, who had won their past three games coming into the contest., 

However, a team talk around the 30 minute mark while Ashley Maynard-Brewer was down receiving treatment for an 'injury' arising from a need to slow the game down seemed to revitalise the team.   Matty Godden then scored on 44 minute with an attack started by him with a deft flick to Campbell.  He converted from Coventry's cross, squeezing it in at the near post. 

Berry made it 2-0 early in the second half on 48 minutes.   Campbell hit the bar and Berry scored from the rebound.   Charlton dominated the rest of the game, but were unable to score again.  Small had a shot blocked and Campbell sent a curler wide.

Charlton had 15 shots on goal of which three were on target, Stevenage managed just three shots, none on target.

In form Stevenage visit The Valley

Stevenage are 4th  in the form table and ahead of Charlton in 6th.   They have only lost three matches away this season in League One, but are something of away draw specialists (five).   They did lose 1-0 at Birmingham in the EFL Trophy earlier in the week.

They certainly have goals in them, beating a faltering Exeter 4-1 at home last week, making it three wins in a row in League One.   Before that they won 3-2 midweek at Wrexham.

Hopefully, Matty Godden will be able to score against his former club.  

CAS Trust admit that Stevenage will be no pushovers, but note that the early kick off could enable us to leapfrog Orient: https://www.castrust.org/2025/02/saturdays-early-shift/

We have now had a year of Nathan Jones in charge at Charlton and assessments on social media have been generally quite favourable if not over enthusiastic.

We may now have a chance of making the play offs, but that is a 1 in 4 chance of promotion.   Some of us can remember the semi-final defeat against Swindon at The Valley, but a defeat at Wembley might be even more painful.

Essentially, it's a three way fight between really wealthy owners trying to get out of the league before new spending restrictions apply next season: https://footballeconomyv2.blogspot.com/2025/02/league-one-is-three-way-fight-between.html

Methven says Charlton's location helps attract investors

Charlie Methven has told The Athletic: "We thought we'd been so clever by investing in Sunderland," explains Methven. "We thought they were one of the biggest teams in the country, with a huge stadium, loyal fanbase, a great academy. What's not to like?

"But we really struggled to get potential investors or sponsors to come, particularly from overseas. They would fly into London and then say they didn't want to get on another flight. Or they would complain about the hotels and restaurants.

"We don't have those issues at Charlton. Potential partners can stay in their favourite hotel, eat in their favourite restaurant, go shopping, catch a show. It's just much easier."

However, Trevor Watkins, head of global sport at a leading law firm remarked of Charlton: "do they have much upside? Maybe. Like I said, there is no science to it!"

I'll be watching the club site for news of the next big investor.

Assessing the January transfer window

As expected, there have been complaints about the January transfer window, but it is difficult to get value in the window.  There is no point in wasting money.   The owners may be wealthy, but I expect they have other things they want to spend their money on apart from Charlton.

I decided to ask artificial intelligence sites what they thought.   The new Chinese site referred me to the club website which was not what I was looking for, but ChatGPT said:

'Observers noted that while the transfer fees were modest—relying heavily on free transfers and strategic loan arrangements—the overall business was a clear statement from the club’s owners. By investing in a mix of young and experienced players and actively reshaping the squad, Charlton demonstrated both a recognition of their mid‐season struggles and a commitment to turning things around for the remainder of the season.

In summary, Charlton Athletic’s January 2025 transfer window can be seen as a proactive and ambitious attempt to strengthen the squad. The incoming players were expected to provide immediate quality and depth, while the outgoing moves helped to balance the books and refine the squad. This activity not only addressed the team’s immediate needs but also signaled that the ownership and management were prepared to make significant changes in pursuit of a top-six finish in League One.'

That does rather look as if it could be written by the club's PR consultants!

Promising loan signing

I have been arguing for some time that the way to add value in the January transfer window is to make a good loan signing and I am pleased to welcome attacking midfielder Alex Gilbert to the club from 'Boro: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-complete-loan-deal-for-middlesbrough-attacking-midfielder/

Charlton has been interested in him for some time.  No doubt the usual suspects will write him off before he has kicked a ball, but former Talksport journalist Tash Everitt has said from Australia that her Boro sources indicate that he is seen as a player with real potential.  

Tide turns for Charlton

As Louis Mendez has commented, we would have taken a draw before the game but now the 2-2 at Blackpool against the League One home draw specialists feels like a loss.  Charlton took a 2-0 second half lead, but were unable to hold on to it.

At one point the Addicks would have been in the play off places but ended up 7th behind Leyton Orient on goal difference.

Chances were scarce throughout the opening exchanges, with a speculative off target attempt from Luke Berry being the only real shot from open play by either side.

Matt Godden tapped in the Charlton opener from six yards, his 11^th goal this season.   The second Charlton goal was an own goal.   After beating his man, Campbell placed a pass against Olly Casey - who was unable to stop the ball from going into the net off him.

Blackpool then got one back through a curling effort from substitute Silvera on 72 minutes.  The second om 87 minutes was a mistake from Gillesphey.   He missed his clearance, Pool broke in, hit the bar,  and the rebound was converted by Niall Ennis on his debut.

Report from Louis Mendez here: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/the-lowdown-on-blackpool-2-charlton-athletic-2-addicks-miss-chance-to-climb-into-top-six-as-they-throw-two-goal-lead-away/

Matty Godden talks of a 'gutted' dressing room but admits that Charlton were naive to let them back in the game: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/matty-godden-admits-charlton-were-naive-during-blackpool-draw-but-looks-to-keep-things-in-perspective-after-good-run/

Not the best time to be by the seaside

Blackpool in winter can be a bleak place with a north-west wind coming off the sea.   We have lost there more than we have won, but optimists hope that we can maintain our momentum: https://www.castrust.org/2025/01/addicks-hope-to-ride-the-current-wave-of-form-up-in-blackpool/

At home this season Blackpool are draw specialists with by far the largest number of home draws in League One: seven (won two, lost two).  At home they have scored 14 goals and conceded 14.    Their last home game saw them draw 2-2 with Huddersfield.    The Terriers went in down 2-0 at the break, but then the Seasiders had what supremo Steve Bruce described as a bad five minutes.  

Last weekend Blackpool won 3-1 at out of form Exeter (second from bottom in the form table)/   This was Blackpool's first win since December 14th.

Blackpool have trimmed their squad, but have also brought in three players, one forward on loan from Stoke City: https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/blackpool-fc/blackpool-boss-makes-admission-on-further-additions-following-third-signing-of-the-window-4969261

Jones tells ex-ref to get real over corner flag incident

Nathan Jones has urged ex-referee Keith Hackett to get a sense of proportion after he suggested that Thierry Small should be sanctioned for kicking the corner flag when celebrating his late winner against Shrewsbury Town.   Jones has pointed out that there are far worse things going on in South-East London: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/maybe-keiths-bored-charlton-boss-nathan-jones-hits-back-at-ex-referee-over-small-celebration-claim/

The corner flag was rescued by a staff member and is said to have recovered from its ordeal.

Jones urges Jones on

Now that Lloyd Jones has signed a new contract, something that I think will be welcomed by the majority of Charlton fans, Nathan Jones has urged to show him what he is capable of, admitting that one cannot use the word 'potential' at age 29: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/nathan-jones-urges-lloyd-jones-to-take-opportunity-to-achieve-what-he-is-capable-of-after-extending-charlton-athletic-contract/ 

While we may not make the play offs this year, we are building a platform for the future.   At least the 'we will be playing in League 2 next season' crowd has gone quiet.

Comfortable home win

Charlton did their play-off push no harm with a 2-0 League One win at home to struggling Bristol Rovers.

Two first-half goals led to a comfortable victory for the  Addicks, who are just a point outside the play-offs, while the visitors remain at the wrong end of the table and sit just four points above the relegation zone.

The returning Matty Godden opened the scoring after 12 minutes, after poking home a drive by Thierry Small.  Josh Griffiths was the busier of the two goalkeepers, denying the goal scorer twice more, a Luke Berry free-kick and a Macauley Gillesphey header.

However, the Bristol Rovers resolve was broken nine minutes before the break, when Josh Edwards fired the ball down low into the net from the edge of the box.

Ashley Maynard-Brewer did well to deny a Scott Sinclair free-kick after 39 minutes in what proved to be the only visiting attack of the half.

Bristol Rovers looked to gain a foothold in the match and searched for an opening, while the Addicks came close again but Small failed to put in a loose ball with less than 10 minutes remaining.

Manager Nathan Jones would not like my headline saying such results are 'never comfortable'.  He very much took the 'long old season' line favoured by Curbs, saying he would not get carried away: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-boss-nathan-jones-refusing-to-get-carried-away-after-addicks-climb-within-point-of-top-six-after-2-0-win-over-bristol-rovers/

Early goal needed against Pirates

Football is a game of fine margins and the wins over Bolton Wanderers and Shrewsbury Town were welcome but not entirely convincing.   As Louis Mendez has pointed out, we rely on goals scored after the 75th minute more than most League One teams.  It would be reassuring to score early against Bristol Rovers tonight.

Mendez states: 'Charlton have scored 12 goals in the final 10 minutes (plus added-time) of games - the most in League One this season. They've also only conceded 2 goals in that timeframe - the joint fewest.  The Addicks have also 'won' the most points with goals from 75 mins onwards - 12.'

The Gasheads are 18th in the table.  Away from home they have won three, drawn one and lost ten.  25 goals have been conceded away from home.  They are fifth from bottom in the form table: Chatlton are second.  

Although they lost 2-0 at Wigan on Saturday, Inigo Calderon has improved their performances since his appointment last month.   The previous Saturday they beat in form Barnsley 3-1 at home.

Dan Potts has now left the club after the expiration of his contract, but Nathan Jones has thanked the former Luton player for helping to establish the culture at the club, praise also extended to the departing Danny Hylton who will continue to hang around as a best mate: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-confirm-defender-exit-with-strikers-deal-also-expiring/

Hylton may yet rejoin in some capacity.  It's like Ian Dowie's brother, well not quite.

Moxon rumours are false

The authoritative Richard Cawley reports: ‘No contact from Preston for Thierry Small. And the rumours about a Charlton move for Portsmouth's Owen Moxon are completely false.’

Moxon didn't look like a great buy to me in terms of value added.

With players returning from injury, and loans (in my view unwisely) ruled out, I am expecting limited incoming in this transfer window.

Small Talk: 'culture in team is very good'

Thierry Small says that his last minute winning goal against Shrewsbury yesterday which sent the Covered End wild with excitement was 'unbelievable': https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/thierry-small-on-last-minute-winner-for-charlton-and-hits-out-at-malicious-behaviour-by-bolton-player/

He said: 'We have got a clear goal and we want to get this club promoted. Everyone is on the same page. It is a good dressing room, even when we were going through a bad spell we were staying positive and together. The culture in the team is very good.'

Kayne Ramsay return a real boost

The return of Kayne Ramsay as a late substitute against the Shrews was a real boost as he was a key player for us before his injury.  Our assistant supremo is full of praise for him: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/he-is-an-athlete-kayne-ramsay-boosts-charlton-athletic-selection-options-after-injury-return/

Last gasp winner

There have been so many times when Charlton have lost a game in time added on, but today a last minute strike by Thierry Small gave them a 1-0 win against Shrewsbury Town.   Louis Mendez says this is the latest game winning goal for ten years.

The statto added: 'Charlton have scored 12 goals in the final 10 minutes (plus added-time) of games - the most in League One this season. They've also only conceded 2 goals in that timeframe - the joint fewest.'

Charlton had 70 per cent possession in the game and eleven shots to four, but only three were on target. Corners were nine to five.

Charlton are 10th, but only two points behind Barnsley in 6th place with a game in hand.  The Louis Mendez graph is looking more promising. 

Luke Berry went close for Charlton in the opening 10 minutes when his right-footed free-kick forced Jamal Blackman into a good save. 

In a scrappy game, Challton offered more of a threat, and they should have led just before the half-hour mark. Tyreece Campbell got the better of Alex Gilliead on the Town right, and his whipped shot was cleared off the line at the back post.

Salop survived another scare moments later when Thierry Small found himself with acres of space inside the penalty box. But his left-footed effort went flying into the Shrewsbury fans behind the goal.

Going forward, Shrewsbury relied heavily on set pieces for their threat, but the delivery was poor, often failing to beat the first man, and the Addicks easily cleared. 

After the break, Leaburn forced Blackman into a good save down to his left when he got away from his man and headed goalward.    Leaburn was not at his best and was eventually replaced by Aneke.

It felt like it was going to be one of those days for Charlton when Greg Docherty got a shot away from eight yards out, only for it to hit his own man inside the six-yard box. 

As the game went into the final 15 minutes, Shropshire's finest had their first effort on target when George Lloyd played in John Marquis - but the Town skipper's effort was saved by Maynard-Brewer. 

Kayne Ramsay, who returned from injury for the hosts, headed over with two minutes remaining on the clock.   Jordan Shipley had a golden chance to win it for Town four minutes into stoppage, but his scuffed effort was cleared off the line.

And with the final kick of the game, Charlton finally broke through the resistance of the Salopians as Small fired in beyond Blackman. 

With Nathan Jones fulfilling a prior engagement, Curtis Fleming said: 'It was something that we thought would happen. Last six or seven games, Salop have looked a resilient team. We spoke about it being 97 minutes that we may win the game"

More from the No.2 here: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-assistant-boss-we-knew-it-might-take-late-winner-to-see-off-shrewsbury-town/

Quite a few fans have expressed respect for  Gareth Ainsowrth and the way he stayed on the pitch to shake hands with Charlton players after the match.  He is a class act.

I note, however, that he didn't make use of his Acworthan signings from Easteligh, Leamington and Telford.

Ainsworth confident of away win at The Valley

Shropshire's finest arrive at The Valley tonorrow afternoon.   Their form has improved under Gareth Ainsworth as manager and he is targeting his first away win against an 'under performing' Charlton: https://www.shropshirestar.com/sport/2025/01/24/charlton-v-shrewsbury-gareth-ainsworth-targeting-first-away-win-at-the-valley/

The Salopians may have been fired up by Wrexham player James McClean [sic] calling Shrewsbury 'an absolute cesspit full of inbreds'.   In fact the town is very attractive and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, but it all kicked off at the Shrewsbury versus Wrexham derby leading to two arrests.  McClean had objects thrown at him during the game.

Under new director of football Jonathan Acworth the Shrews have been snapping up non-league target with the latest signing being Ricardo Dinanga from AFC Telford, the third tier club being somewhat surprisingly described as 'local rivals'.

Charlton are sixth in the form table while the Shrews are mid-table.   Away from home they have won once, drawn three and lost eight, 

For those who think you can read results off the table, this looks like three points for the Addicks, but I do not think it is a foregone conclusion.   Charlton are consistently inconsistent.

CAS Trust see it as a great chance to put more points on the board.  Let's hope they are right: https://www.castrust.org/2025/01/another-roll-of-the-dice-at-home-to-shrewsbury/

BTW, to see what both Charlton and Shrewsbury are up against in terms of the participants in the 'Hollywood derby' read here: https://footballeconomyv2.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-wider-meaning-of-hollywood-derby.html