Charlton’s Darren Pratley says he is surprised that Jonny Williams has dropped into League One – but says he’s landed at the perfect club when doing so
Charlton engine-roomer Darren Pratley is surprised that Jonny Williams has had to drop into the third tier, but says he’s landed at the perfect club when doing so.
Welsh international Williams left Crystal Palace to sign a short-term deal with the Addicks and has impressed in his first couple of appearances.
“Jonny Williams is a good player,” said Pratley, who played alongside the Palace academy graduate in the midfield during Charlton’s 3-0 win at Shrewsbury Town.
“I’ve played against him a lot in my career. I was a bit surprised to see him come down to League One to be honest, at his age and the quality he’s got. But this is the perfect club for him and a great manager for him too.
“[Lee Bowyer] lets all the young players go out and express themselves. The way we play is perfect for him. He’ll be a brilliant signing.”
Saturday’s win in Shropshire saw the Addicks climb to within just three points of League One’s automatic promotion places. Pratley sees no reason why Charlton can’t finish in that top two.
“There’s still 18 games to go,” he explained.
“Still a long way to go. I don’t think there’s many times that we’ve won and the other teams have dropped points or lost so it’s nice that they have but we have to carry it on.
“We’ve got a tough game against Stanley on Saturday at The Valley. I thought we were lucky to hang on at their place so we have to try and put that right. That’ll be a tough game for us.
“We’ve had a good team spirit since I’ve been here. We’ve had loads of players out injured, players who’ve not travelled today. Players on the bench as well. We’ve got a good squad here. Every single one of them can play in the first team and it wouldn’t make us any weaker, I don’t think.
“We’ve got a good squad. Obviously, it’s hard balancing it, trying to keep everyone happy. But we’re all together. Hopefully pushing in the right direction to get what we’ve set out to do.”