Exclusive: Former Charlton midfielder Robert Lee a proud man as son Elliot joins Addicks on loan
BY LOUIS MENDEZ
Former Charlton midfielder Robert Lee says he’ll be a proud man when son Elliot follows in his footsteps and pulls on an Addicks shirt.
Elliot has joined the South Londoners on a season-long loan from Championship side Luton Town on Thursday afternoon.
Robert made over 300 starts for Charlton after coming through the youth ranks before departing for Newcastle in a money-spinning move in 1992 – shortly before the club returned to The Valley.
Lee, who also played international football for England, was thrilled to see one of his offspring join the club where it all started for him.
“I’m delighted,” he explained.
“It’s been a long time coming. Obviously, I’ve got two sons that play football. There was rumours my other one Olly was coming a few years ago and last year but eventually I’ve got one here. I’m very proud. I’ve always wanted one of them to play for Charlton. I had a great eight years here, a great upbringing here. I’ll be a very proud dad on Saturday.
“He’s an attacking player if you give him the ball. He’s a bit like myself, has a low centre of gravity. Big thighs, twists and turns and scores goals. He’s a natural goal scorer. If you get him into the box, he’ll score. He’ll bring goals, if he gets chances he’ll score. He’s done that all his life. He can be involved as a 10 or a striker and he’ll score goals.
“The attraction is that it’s a great club and always has been. It’s sitting in League One but it’s not a League One club, as everyone knows. If he can help get them back into the Championship and move them back towards the Premier League then great. It’s a great opportunity for him and the club.
“There was a few options for him. I didn’t have to push him too much. I think he wanted to come here as well. He wasn’t born when I played here but I’ve told him all about it many, many times, until he’s fed up! It didn’t take any persuading, he wanted to come here and he wants to play. He’ll be looking very much forward to playing at The Valley.”