Charlton Athletic confirm contract talks continue with defender after activating 12-month extension clause

Charlton Athletic have confirmed they have activated a clause in Thierry Small’s contract to retain the defender’s services for next season.

Our website exclusively broke the news that the League One club had taken up their option to add an extra 12 months on to the 19-year-old full-back’s Valley terms.

Small has been linked with a move away from Charlton with Derby mooted as admirers. The South London Press was told at the weekend that the Addicks had not had any contact from the newly-promoted Championship side.

Small, who joined Charlton at the start of February after being released by Southampton, was a mainstay of Nathan Jones’ side in the run-in to the last campaign.

Charlton technical director Andy Scott told the club’s website: “We had to trigger the one-year extension by May 15 – which is what we’ve done and we’re pleased that Thierry will be with us next season.

“He’s done really well since he joined us. We’ve made him a long-term contract offer, as we feel he has a lot of ability and potential. He can learn and develop under the guidance of Nathan Jones and our staff and contribute to the club next season and as we progress.

“We will continue negotiations with Thierry and his agent when he returns from his break.”

PICTURE: PA