‘A few ups and downs’ – Charlton midfield prospect talks about his development progression as milestone approaches
BY RICHARD CAWLEY
richard@slpmedia.co.uk
Karoy Anderson is closing in on 50 senior appearances for Charlton Athletic but the young midfielder is the first to admit his progression has not been without obstacles.
Looking from the outside, the 20-year-old is making excellent strides since his Addicks debut in an EFL Trophy tie at Plymouth Argyle in November 2022.
Since then he has also won international recognition with Jamaica and was part of their squad for last summer’s Copa America.
Sydenham-raised Anderson, who graduated through Charlton’s academy, has made 47 appearances for the South Londoners and has started 11 of their 19 League One matches this season.
“It’s been a few ups and downs,” said the South Londoner, when asked how he assesses his development. “There have been a few difficult moments but a lot of highs and moments where I have learned as well.
“I’ve enjoyed it, because I didn’t expect it to be plain-sailing and easy.
“Every player feels like they want to play football all the time – but it is just not the case. Sometimes you are left out or you are taken off. Sometimes you are not playing as well as you should be and want to be.
“There are high expectations from your team-mates, manager and the fans. In those moments you can get quite low but my family, the staff at
Charlton and my team-mates have been really good in identifying if I might not be feeling great.”
Anderson has been more involved since Nathan Jones was appointed Addicks manager in February.
The Welshman seems to appreciate the midfielder’s energy and athleticism.
Anderson scored his first senior goal to hand Jones his maiden victory after replacing Michael Appleton in The Valley hotseat in February, a 2-1 success at a Derby County side that were second in the table and went on to win promotion.
“He (Jones) has been really important to my development,” said Anderson. “He has taught me certain things and showed what areas to do certain things.
“But also he has been tough on me at times and that is what you need as a young player – not just encouragement.
“We have a really good relationship. At this age he is the perfect manager for me.
“He expects a lot but that is really good because it makes me expect more from myself also.”
Anderson has two bosses to please – the other being Steve McClaren.
The former England chief left his role as Manchester United assistant manager to take charge of the Reggae Boyz.
“There isn’t a great difference in what he is asking me to do compared to what I do at Charlton,” said Anderson. “I’m taking small bits from some of the players at international level because they have played way more games than me.
“He asks me to handle the football, be confident and get on the ball all the time.
“It was a massive honour to get picked by Jamaica and it still is – every time.
“Going to the Copa America with them has been one of my biggest highs – along with scoring at Derby. I was really glad to score and win in that game. Every game you win is a high.”
PICTURES: PAUL EDWARDS