Crystal Palace attacker Rak-Sakyi will always have special place in his heart for Charlton Athletic

Crystal Palace attacker Jesurun Rak-Sakyi says that Charlton Athletic will always have a special place in his heart after an award-winning loan spell.

The 20-year-old South Londoner took two of the League One club’s most coveted awards as he was voted Player of the Year by both supporters and also his fellow professional players.

Rak-Sakyi has scored 15 goals and collected 10 assists during his stay with the Addicks. He has also made 48 appearances in all competitions, including the EFL Cup quarter-final tie at Manchester United.

“For it to be my first loan and for it to go so well, it will always been remembered – that this was where my career started,” Rak-Sakyi told Charlton Live. “It will always be with me for the rest of my career.

“It’s been very difficult, even though people will think it has been easy for me. But it is the support of my family, friends, agent and the team having my back and always believing in me that has given me that edge to push on. I’m very delighted (with the awards).”

We reported recently that Palace will assess Rak-Sakyi in pre-season with any decision over another loan – surely not at League One level – left until later in the summer transfer window.

“That decision (over what comes next) is not in my hands,” said the Eagles prospect. “I’ve done everything I can on the pitch. Whatever happens, I’m sure it will be for the best.”