‘Disappointed not to have the necessary time’ – Ben Garner issues statement about Charlton Athletic exit

Ben Garner has issued a statement about his departure from Charlton Athletic and explained he was disappointed not to get longer in the manager’s hotseat.

Addicks owner Thomas Sandgaard sacked the 42-year-old a week ago.

Garner was appointed on a three-year contract in the summer after compensation was agreed with Swindon Town.

“It has been a privilege to be the manager of Charlton Athletic and I am disappointed to be departing so early into my tenure,” said Garner, in a statement on the League Managers Association website.

“I would like to thank the fans for the incredible support that I have received and I want you to know how much that means to me. This is your football club and I will always remember and appreciate both the welcome I received and the support you gave me throughout my time at The Valley.

“I also want to recognise the players for their application and effort during my time as manager. There is a good group at the core of this squad and a talented pool of younger players who have real potential to grow in the future.

“My coaching staff deserve particular mention for their commitment and diligence over the course of this season – hard work, dedication and passion for the job were a constant throughout our time together.

“I finally want to thank the staff throughout the club. There are brilliant people who work tirelessly behind the scenes and I have enjoyed getting to know every one of you.

“It was a difficult decision to leave Swindon Town at the end of last season but the opportunity to manage Charlton Athletic was one I could not refuse. The challenge excited me and I was confident of being able to bring success back to a great football club whose supporters deserve nothing less.

“I am disappointed not to have had the necessary time to take the team forward as I know that we would have built a side that we all could be proud of.

“I wish the club, the players, the staff and the fans every success for the future.”