Johnnie Jackson hopes for clarity over permanent role soon with transfer window approaching
BY LOUIS MENDEZ
Charlton caretaker Johnnie Jackson says he hopes to have clarity over his role at the club soon with the January transfer window approaching.
The former Addicks midfielder has now been in temporary charge of the side for 51 days since Nigel Adkins departure. The 2-0 win over Cambridge means he has secured 20 from a possible 27 points since.
Cambridge boss Mark Bonner said after the game that he didn’t know what more Jackson has to do to secure the job.
“I’m just trying to do my job,” said Jackson, when asked if the delay is causing him to become frustrated.
“It’s nice of Mark to say that. Young coaches, we want to stick together. He’s doing really well at Cambridge. For me, it’s a time for young coaches. It’s our time to shine. We’ll get there. We are talking and we will get a resolution to it, I’m sure. I’m not getting frustrated, I’m just trying to do the job as best I can.
“I think we just need some clarity of where we’re going. Hopefully if gets sorted really soon. We need to have discussions about January and what we’re going to do. How we’re going to add if we’re going to add.
“Obviously, it’s a really important time and it can put a marker down for the rest of the season. We need to have those discussions really soon and I’m sure we will do.”
Saturday’s victory sees the South Londoners climb to within eight points of the top six but Jackson isn’t concentrating on the league position yet.
He added: “People keep telling me that and I’m trying not to focus on it. You have to look at the next few games and worry about them. If we keep putting runs together you do claw away at it. We’re still not where we want to be in the league. When I took over we were in a bit of a perilous position so immediate focus was to get out of that and try to put runs of wins together which we’re doing.
“It’s a strong league. League One is probably as strong as I’ve ever seen it, this year. It’s easier said than done because even if you’re winning other teams are going to win because there’s some good sides in the division. We’ll win games and pick up points. It’s a mammoth task but we’ll keep going and try to win every game we play.”
PHOTOS: KEITH GILLARD
Unless there is something going on with T. S. that we are not privy to, I just cannot see why he is apparently stalling over making Jackson’s appointment permanent. What more does he have to do.? It is clear that the players enjoy playing for him and after all, they are the guys on the pitch. The fans are 100% behind him and that means better crowds and more revenue for the club, so what is the problem ?. Like thousands of others, I am completely bewildered and would expect Jackson to be made manager sometime this week. It is in the interests of everybody associated with Charlton Athletic. If T. S. does not appoint Jackson, it will be one hell of an own goal and all credibility will be lost. Remember Duchelet !!!