Charlton Athletic striker gives his verdict on his former club Birmingham’s huge League One spending

Charlton Athletic forward Chuks Aneke has given his verdict on his former club Birmingham’s big-spending approach to try and win promotion out of League One.

The Blues are believed to have shelled out more than £25million in transfer fees in the last window as they look for an instant bounce back into the Championship. That also saw them splash more than £10m on Fulham’s Jay Stansfield – easily a record transfer fee in England’s third tier.

Aneke joined Birmingham in 2021 – former Addicks boss Lee Bowyer was then in charge of them – and scored two goals in 21 appearances.

“They are a big club and desperate to get back up to the Champ and beyond,” Aneke told the South London Press. “Fair play to them – they are putting their money where their mouth is.

“We’ll see what happens. I’ve played many League One seasons and money doesn’t always ensure success. Let’s see what they do – they’ve got some good players for the level.

“Let’s see if they can put it all together and produce.”

Rotherham manager Steve Evans, speaking after Saturday’s 1-1 draw at The Valley, reckons that League One has a stronger composition of clubs than last season.

Aneke – asked for his thoughts on the strength of the division – said: “On paper it definitely looks tougher – Birmingham, Wrexham and Huddersfield. There are some teams that have recently played their football at higher echelons and a lot of money behind them. Money doesn’t ensure success. We’re in League One now and it’s about maintaining winning games.

“The team on paper doesn’t always win – that’s not how football goes.”

See a full interview with Aneke in tomorrow’s South London Press.

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD