‘I couldn’t stop smiling when Charlton fans chanted my name’ – Miles Leaburn on signing professional deal and brace against Dartford
Miles Leaburn has expressed his gratitude for Charlton Athletic’s patience after signing a long-term professional contract with the League One club.
The Mottingham-raised striker had been on Chelsea’s books for 10 years before he joined the Addicks in 2020.
Leaburn’s dad Carl is a former England U20 international who scored 53 goals in 344 appearances for Charlton between 1987 and 1998. And his mum Tracey is head of first-team player care.
The youngster scored twice in Saturday’s 6-1 friendly win at Dartford and was only denied a hat-trick by a goal-line clearance.
“It was an easy decision [to sign],” Leaburn told the South London Press. “The players and staff have been really helpful these past few years. They’ve been patient because in my first year I was injured a lot as well. To now give me this chance, I’m grateful.
“I had injuries in the first season I was here and then the second season, it was only at the end of last season that I started to come through it all.
“I want to try and stay in the team. I don’t expect to be put in there straight away but I’ve got a point to prove, I’m ready to try and prove it.”
Picture: Kyle Andrews
Charlton supporters at Princes Park chanted his surname – just like they did his dad during his playing days for the South Londoners.
“He showed me some clips before with the Leaburn chants but when it happened I couldn’t stop myself smiling. It was really warm from the fans. My dad has been there and done it. He’s helped me literally through my whole life with the football. Even my mum is taking a few notes and trying to help me as well. I feel that’s what has really pushed me to be where I am here.
“I could see my mum on the side celebrating. She held it down to not embarrass me too much. After this [game] I’ll probably go with here to celebrate a little bit.
“It’s been a great week and this has topped it off.”
Leaburn also travelled with the Charlton squad to Spain and played minutes in their 1-0 behind-closed-doors defeat to Kilmarnock.
The teenager operated down the right wing against Dartford.
“I tried my best against Kilmarnock but it wasn’t a position I was really familiar with,” he said. “Through the week the manager and assistant manager were really helpful and gave me tips where I could be better and different runs – it’s paid off today [Saturday].
“I felt more comfortable with the lads – even if I make a mistake it is all positives and never negatives. That’s really helpful for me.”
PICTURES: KYLE ANDREWS
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