Q&A with Patrick Bauer as he discusses Charlton Athletic exit and best player he played with during his time with the South Londoners
Patrick, four years at Charlton, but the best memory can only be one: that goal against Sunderland…
Yes, no doubts about that. The goal against Sunderland was the pinnacle of my Charlton career as it also coincided with my last-ever game for the club. Scoring the winner in a Wembley final and in such an important game for the club was special. It means a lot to me because of the timing, the fact that it happened in injury-time and helped Charlton return to the Championship was an indescribable moment for me.
What do you remember from that day at Wembley?
We had a poor start to the game, conceding a goal early on which could have killed us but instead it served as a wake-up call. We grew into the game and bounced back with a good performance, managing to win the game!
Why did you leave Charlton?
I believe it was the right moment to do it on such a high note. After the final, I held talks with the Preston North End manager and was sold on the project they had in place for the club.
I wanted to take the next career step and if we look at the table it proves that I have done just that because Preston is an upgrade.
Was Premier League promotion with PNE in your mind when you signed?
Yes, I when I signed and looked at the club’s roster I was convinced that Preston North End had what it took to make the top six and qualify for the play-offs. That is the main reason why I eventually decided to join this club. The sporting aspect was important to me.
Was it difficult to swap London with Lancashire?
Yes, it was tough because I spent four great years in London and at Charlton. It was not easy to walk away and make the switch to the North. In London I met many great people, Charlton has such amazing and vocal fans and there are also great people working behind the scenes at the club. My former teammates were also outstanding. I repeat it was complicated in the beginning to leave all those things behind but in hindsight it was the right decision and I am now very happy to play for Preston.
Who was the best player you played with at Charlton?
Alou Diarra was the best by a landslide. He played a World Cup final. Ademola Lookman, who is now at RB Leipzig, was also a very skilled player. I really played with many good players at Charlton.
Will Charlton stay in the Championship?
I hope they do. In any case, I will keep my fingers crossed for my beloved Addicks!
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