Charlton Athletic defender asked about contract negotiation situation

Thierry Small has remained coy over his long-term future at Charlton Athletic.

The Addicks triggered an option in the 20-year-old defender’s contract in the summer to extend his terms until June 2025.

But Charlton also stated at the time they were trying to secure Small, previously on the books of Everton and Southampton, on an extended contract.

The Solihull-born player was asked about his deal situation after Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Mansfield. He said: “We’re still undergoing negotiations.”

So does he want to stay at Charlton?

Small said: “I love it at Charlton. They have got a history of developing young players. Whatever happens in the future will be.”

Charlton manager Nathan Jones has talked about his players needing to handle ‘edginess’ from some of the club’s support, who have lost patience with another hugely underwhelming start to the League One campaign.

“As players we want fans to be backing us and supporting us even when things aren’t going well,” said Small. “Football is not easy. This league is not easy. We want fans to give us that extra support – when The Valley is rocking it is unbelievable. You can feel that momentum from the fans. It helps drive players on and get the best out of us.

“When we are going behind or not getting results we want that extra support.

“Morale (in the squad) is still high. We’re sticking together.

“It was a positive performance (against Mansfield). We got a clean sheet and in spells played some good football.

“As long as we are not conceding as many goals then the goals (at the other end) will come. We can’t get too overly sad if we are not getting points at the moment. As long as we stay tight at the back and are not conceding many goals then we can keep building.”

PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS