Charlton Athletic appoint Richard O’Donnell to Michael Appleton’s backroom team

Charlton Athletic have appointed Richard O’Donnell as first-team coach.

The Addicks are in the process of replacing some roles in new head coach Michael Appleton’s backroom team.

Jason Pearce had been in interim charge following Dean Holden’s sacking but he will return to his academy position after today’s match at Stevenage.

O’Donnell has worked with Appleton at Blackpool and Lincoln City.

There has been no mention of Anthony Hayes’ future. His position is first-team assistant manager but he has not been mentioned by Appleton in any questions about his staffing plans.

The South London Press has been told that Hayes had not been in to perform coaching duties. He deleted his Twitter account this week.

Hayes assisted Pearce for his one match in charge of the senior side, a 2-1 win over Fleetwood Town before the international break.

Holden’s other assistant manager Danny Senda and goalkeeping coach Glyn Shimell were both dismissed. Stephen Henderson has replaced Shimell on a temporary basis.

Charlton technical director Andy Scott said: “I am delighted to welcome Richie to the club. He comes with a strong career in coaching and has demonstrated his ability to work with players, both young and more experienced, at this level, as well as the Championship.

“Michael was very keen to work with Richie again and, after many conversations and meetings, it was clear that he would complement Michael as well as the rest of the first team staff well. He is an excellent communicator who will interact with the players well and we look forward to working with him.

“With Richie joining the club, Jason Pearce will return to his role in the academy after this weekend’s game as was his wish and I personally would like to thank him for stepping up in difficult circumstances and being so professional and thorough – something that I’m sure all Charlton fans won’t be surprised to hear. We believe Jason has a very long, successful coaching career ahead of him.

“Following Richie’s arrival, we will now reflect and review the coaching team – as we are with all football-related departments – and, with Michael’s input, decide what other members of staff we will recruit and in which areas to enable the players to improve and for the club to ensure we have a high performing team on and off the pitch.”