Second striker joins

Gassan Ahadme joins Charlton on a four-year deal from Ipswich Town.  Richard Cawley comments: ‘ Supposed to be a machine in terms of his fitness.’

Nathan Jones told Cawley: ‘The two strikers we’ve signed have real pedigree and I’d like to thank the board and the ownership for backing us on these signings. Our squad has significantly improved already this summer and we haven’t finished our recruitment.’

Whether we paid the £1m Ipswich were reported to be asking for him is not known, but it would be excessive.   However, the East Anglian Daily Times claims that the £1m has been paid together with add ons which could take it above £1m.

Career history of the Moroccan born in Spain: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gassan_Ahadme

Speaking after the move was confirmed, Ahadme said: “Since the first time I spoke with Nathan, I was impressed with the things that he told me, and especially the energy that I felt from him and the things that he wants to do. It’s a really ambitious project and that’s why I’m excited to be here.”

Jones added: “I’m delighted we’ve signed Gassan, he was a real number one target for us. Like with the signing of Matty Godden, it has been a long process - we’ve been pursuing him all summer. We’re delighted to add him, he brings us quality, and a presence and profile of a number nine. 

Godden signs

Matt Godden from Coventry City has signed a two year contract at Charlton and another striker signing is expected: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/charlton-athletic-sign-coventry-city-striker-matt-godden-on-two-year-contract/

Sceptics may doubt whether they will score as many goals between them as Alfie May, but then a disgruntled May forced to stay would not have performed as well as last season.

May has bid an emotional farewell to Charlton, but says his wife couldn't settle in London: https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/its-been-a-year-ill-never-forget-alfie-mays-emotional-farewell-message-to-charlton-fans/

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".