Charlton Athletic boss explains defender’s transfer window exit

Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones has talked about Lucas Ness’ transfer to League Two side Notts County.

The defender, 22, has completed his switch this week and signed a three-year contract.

“We thank Lucas – Lucas has been an absolutely great lad,” said Jones. “His opportunities were limited here and he had a bit of an injury that he was carrying, so he wasn’t showing his full potential.

“We had a decision to make. Do we keep him around and see if he can fulfil what we need? Or do we allow him to move on where he is guaranteed games?

“That was the decision and we left it up to the boy. One, we had a fee. Two, we’re covered in terms of things. The boy just wanted to go and get games elsewhere and so we’ve allowed him to do that. We wish him all the best.

“He is a really good pro.”

Jones has talked about wanting more signings before next week’s transfer window deadline.

But the Addicks are keen to cut their first-team squad size down.

“What we don’t want at the end of the window is people being here, not featuring at all and it being detrimental to them,” said Jones. “It’s a bit of a balancing act but I’m sure we will have a relatively busy week or 10 days – whatever it is.

“I know we’re going to come out of this window stronger because we have anyway. All we are doing now is adding more strength.”

PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS