Charlton Athletic boss explains why Alfie May did not feature at Dartford

Charlton manager Dean Holden has explained why Alfie May did not feature in today’s pre-season friendly at Dartford.

The Addicks signed the 30-year-old striker on Friday but the Kent-raised player was not part of the 23-man squad which travelled to the National League South outfit.

“I can’t wait to start working with him,” Holden told BBC Radio London. “He had his first couple of weeks at Cheltenham and then had a different type of week physically – there was no point risking him today.

“We have got to get to know him physically and where he’s at. He has got a couple of things to work out before Spain (training camp) and after that it is full steam into Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday-Tuesday. This is the right time to get everything sorted and be on the flight tomorrow.

“We’ve chased him since the end of last season. I was always confident we’d get him. My first conversation with him, he was desperate to come to the club. He is from the area and a lot of his mates are big Charlton fans. He’s desperate to play as high as he can for as long as he can. He missed out at a young age and fell out of love with the game. He got into cricket and found his way back in – it is a great story that he has got.

“He comes as a prolific striker, which is what I felt we need. As well as that he works his socks off – he plays every game like it is his last.

“Late Thursday afternoon I got the call it was finally done. I was always confident but there were other big clubs circling.”

PICTURE: CHARLTON ATHLETIC FC