Charlton Athletic defender confirms he won’t be offered new playing contract

Jason Pearce has confirmed that there will be no offer of a playing contract for him at Charlton Athletic next season.

The experienced centre-back becomes a free agent at the end of July.

Pearce is taking his first steps on the coaching ladder with the South London club but is not ready to retire yet.

And he told Charlton Live at the club’s Player of the Year dinner that he was not going to be handed a fresh deal.

“I’ve been told by the gaffer that he don’t want me next year,” said Pearce. “From a playing point of view, I won’t be here. But I’m hoping there’s potential for me to get a coaching role here and then I have options to play elsewhere.

“I love the club, I think everyone knows that. I play like I love the club. I’m seriously going to consider a coaching role but I’m relatively young and know I can still play.

“I’ll see what else is out there. I’ve loved my time here and I’d love to stay in some capacity. I’m disappointed he don’t want me but that’s just football.

“I’ve got probably the biggest decision to make of my career. My head has probably been a bit scrambled in the last few weeks because I didn’t know what was going on, it’s been difficult.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD