Charlton boss outlines negotiating stance with former Everton and Southampton defender
Charlton manager Nathan Jones has indicated that they will push ahead with trying to secure Thierry Small on a long-term contract once they have completed their incoming transfer activity.
The left wing-back initially signed on a short-term contract after leaving Southampton at the end of January.
The former Everton youngster, 19, impressed for the Addicks, who tabled improved terms.
Charlton then activated a 12-month extension option they had in the original deal.
The South Londoners are focused on the current trading period with four additions already made – Will Mannion, Luke Berry, Josh Edwards and Alex Mitchell.
Jones told the South London Press: “We want to tie him (Small) down. At the moment we are not able to. We’ll further that once we get all our recruitment done – then we’ll look at anyone we’re exposed on.
“Thierry is not going anywhere, in terms of that. We’re very happy with him.
“Thierry is starting to get the home that we felt he needed. I definitely felt he needed (that) – someone who can work with him, week in and week out. Because Thierry is probably the same player he was when he went from Everton to Southampton – potent, physical and has some wonderful attributes but needs to learn the position.
“That’s what we’re going to do here.”
Charlton have strengthened their left-sided options with the acquisition of Josh Edwards from Dunfermline.
Edwards, who can play a number of different positions, was used as a wing-back by the Scottish Championship club.
“I monitored him and knew about him, probably just after Christmas,” said Jones.
“That is a difficult position to fill. We signed Thierry at the time – he was a free agent and someone I knew – but always had an eye on (adding another). We’ve got a really good balance there, because Thierry is different to Josh.
“It gives us real variety in that position. He (Edwards) has been on my radar for a little while and we beat off a lot of competition.”
PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS