Charlton AthleticDulwich HamletSport

Charlton Athletic boss explains thinking behind goalkeeper loan move

Charlton Athletic manager Johnnie Jackson has explained why the time was right for Nathan Harness to go out on loan.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper signed for Dulwich Hamlet over the weekend and made his debut in their 4-1 win over Concord Rangers on Saturday.

Harness should feature again tomorrow as Gavin Rose’s side welcome Eastbourne Borough to Champion Hill.

“I believe he’s going there for a month, initially,” said Jackson. “Nathan needs to play some senior football.

“He has got two good goalkeepers here to compete with, so his opportunities are going to be limited. He played in the Papa John’s but they only come around every now and again.

“It’s a great opportunity for him to get some senior football because he is not a baby anymore, he is growing up.

Nathan Harness warms up before Dulwich Hamlet’s match against Concord Rangers Picture: Rob Avis

“He hasn’t been tested regularly enough at senior level.

“For me, goalkeeping is goalkeeping – he needs to be playing, whatever the level. The hustle and bustle, getting knocked about, having to defend set-pieces and things like that.”

Reports have suggested that Ayr United are set to take midfielder Ben Dempsey on loan.

“There might be possibility a chance for Ben to go out on loan but until that is shored up then I won’t comment on the club,” said Jackson.

“Again he is a player who needs to go out and experience first-team football more regularly.”

PICTURES: ROB AVIS

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


The reCAPTCHA verification period has expired. Please reload the page.