‘Absolutely outstanding support’ – Nathan Jones praises Charlton fans for backing in victory at Derby County

Nathan Jones described Charlton Athletic’s travelling support as “absolutely outstanding” after tonight’s 2-1 win at Derby County.

Alfie May and Karoy Anderson scored in the second half for the Addicks as they overturned a 1-0 deficit at the interval to pick up their first victory in 17 League One matches.

Jones, appointed manager at the start of this month, showed his emotion at the full-time whistle as he celebrated with the away fans at Pride Park.

“It’s outstanding that 700 travel up here on a Tuesday night after having a home game and with games coming up – especially with where we are in the league,” Jones told Charlton TV.

“The Charlton fans are absolutely outstanding. I expect it because I know Charlton, I was here for a year and saw what can be achieved when you get a side that really gives them something.

“We’re starting to do that. They were absolutely brilliant tonight. They were great at the end and I wanted to give them a little bit – show them I’m as big a Charlton fan as anyone now, so that’s what it is.”

It was Anderson’s first league goal for the Addicks, the midfielder following up after Daniel Kanu’s attempt had been parried by Joe Wildsmith.

And it was Kanu’s persistence and pace which saw Wildsmith trip the young striker for the penalty which May put home for his 21st goal of the season.

Asked about the two academy products, Jones said: “Second half I thought everyone was (outstanding) but Karoy, I really love the kid. In the short time I’ve been here he has been everything that you want from a young footballer.

“Daniel Kanu has been excellent.

“Conor Coventry was brilliant tonight in how he went about his work and what he did. Especially he has been out of the team – I’ve demanded stuff off him and he has come back and reacted wonderfully well.

“Game-changers off the bench show that when we’re front-footed we’re a good team and a good squad.”

Tennai Watson came off in the closing stages.

“It’s just his hip again,” said Jones. “It’s locking up. He is going through the pain barrier for us but that shows what the kid is doing. That’s the group we’ve got here, to be fair.”