Charlton boss maintains “no issues” with Derby target Blackett-Taylor or skipper Dobson
Charlton head coach Michael Appleton says that there have been “no issues” with Corey Blackett-Taylor or George Dobson – two players inside the final six months of their contracts.
Derby County returned with a £250,000 bid for Blackett-Taylor at the start of last week, an improvement on the £200,000 tabled at the start of the transfer window.
Blackett-Taylor then missed Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Peterborough due to an injury picked up in training.
Asked about whether it was a genuine knock amid increased speculation over his future, Appleton told the South London Press: “It’s difficult because up until this week and the injury there were no issues – so I can’t answer that question until another couple of weeks time.
“He picked up his injury on Friday before the game and you have got to treat and respect people that they are giving you a honest answer – I’m sure that’s the case.
“For me it is very much a case that he is not fit and who is going to play instead of him.
“The situation is where it is with Corey at this moment in time – he is our player and will remain our player until Derby come up with a fee that suits and fits us as a football club.”
Our website reported that club captain George Dobson, out of contract at the end of June, also has interest from a Hungarian team.
Charlton have made a couple of contract offers to the 26-year-old.
“I want to keep as many players around as I can that I think can help us go forward,” said Appleton. “What does that mean? That means compete at the top end of the division.
“My stance will always remain the same on that (that he wants to keep Dobson and Blackett-Taylor). But I understand it as well – I’ve been in their position. I’ve got into the last six months of my deal and recognised there is an opportunity elsewhere to better myself – go to a different club or a different environment.
“I think the only thing I can do is make sure I have a good relationship with George and Corey – make sure when they are available to play they are in a good mindset to play and do well.
“Then the finances and contractual side of it I’ll leave to the club to crack on. In the meantime, there has been no issues from playing or training.”
PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS
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