Charlton Athletic hand short-term deal to Australian goalkeeper

Charlton Athletic have signed goalkeeper Dean Bouzanis on a short-term contract.

The Addicks have shotstopper Ashley Maynard-Brewer sidelined through injury.

Bouzanis, 34, had most recently been on the books of Reading but left at the start of February.

Charlton manager Nathan Jones told the club’s official website: “Dean’s been training with us now for the last month following the injury to Ashley.

“With the precarious nature of the emergency loan market, we felt it was better to sign someone who we’ve had in the environment and Dean’s done very well since coming here.

“He’s got real good experience, he’s fitted in with the group really well and he provides real good competition for what is already a good goalkeeping department.”

Bouzanis said: “It’s an honour to be here and an opportunity that I’m looking forward to with this fantastic group that’s fighting at the right end of the table. Hopefully we can do something special come the end of the season.”

Bouzanis has played for Sutton United, Oldham Athletic and Melbourne City.

PICTURE: ALAMY