Charlton Athletic intent on more deals despite head coach search process following Appleton sacking

Charlton’s board of directors have issued a statement following the sacking of Michael Appleton and have indicated they will still look to add to their squad despite starting the search for a new head coach.

The transfer window closes towards the end of next week and the Addicks dispensed with Appleton immediately after Tuesday’s 3-2 defeat to Northampton Town which extended their winless League One run to 10 matches.

First-team coach Curtis Fleming has been placed in caretaker charge with the club’s former centre-back Jason Pearce, senior professional development phase lead coach, assisting the ex-Crystal Palace man.

In a statement attributed to Charlton’s board, they said: “Our current league position and form over the last two months is not good enough and does not match the ambition and investment of the club’s owners or the expectations of us as a board, the club’s staff and you, the supporters.

“To arrest our recent form the decision has been taken to relieve men’s first-team head coach Michael Appleton and men’s first-team coach Richard O’Donnell of their respective roles.

“Our search for the club’s next men’s first-team head coach is under way. Given our current position and the ambition of everyone at the club, it is vital we get the right appointment to lead Charlton forward.

“In the meantime Curtis Fleming will take interim charge, supported by Jason Pearce and Stephen Henderson. Curtis is a very experienced coach while Jason and Stephen have a real understanding of the club given their history as players at Charlton.

“While appointing a new head coach is a key priority, we are also well aware that there is just over a week left in the January transfer window. We have already signed seven players this month and we are still looking to further strengthen the squad before the window closes next week. The transfer activity will be overseen, as it has been throughout January, by the club’s technical director Andy Scott.

“We would like to thank you for your continued, passionate support and assure you that everyone at the club is working hard to turn things around on the pitch. Your support will play an important role in helping us finish the season as high up the table as possible.”

MAIN PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS