‘He’s reacted well to the criticism’ – Johnnie Jackson praises goalkeeper Craig MacGillivray for adding new element to his game
BY LOUIS MENDEZ
Charlton boss Johnnie Jackson has heaped praise on goalkeeper Craig MacGillivray for the way he has reacted to recent criticism.
The Addicks stopper was put into the spotlight recently when his manager spoke of his disappointment that he wasn’t commanding his area following a defeat at Accrington Stanley a month ago.
But the former Portsmouth man has added an aerial presence to his game over the last few weeks and helped ease the pressure during today’s win at Rotherham with some important claims.
“Delighted,” said Jackson.
“Credit to him. He came under some criticism from myself. We had some good, honest conversations and sat down and looked at things. Spoke about how and what I need him to do to improve. He’s taken it on board.
“I think now he’s relishing the opportunity to come and command his penalty box. Again, excellent today. I think there’s been a marked improvement in his performances. That’s credit to him. He’s taken on board what I’ve asked, and he’s implemented it.”
Jackson also commended skipper Jason Pearce for his defensive work during his side’s clean sheet at the New York Stadium.
“He is Mr Dependable,” added the Addicks boss.
“He’s had a great career and is the captain for a reason. He hasn’t played week in, week out but when called upon you know you can rely on him to come in and do the job. Like with all of them back there, they defended brilliantly.”
Midfielder Albie Morgan featured for the first time since defeat at Sheffield Wednesday at the end of February.
“I thought he did well,” answered Jackson when asked what he made of the 22-year-old’s performance on the return to South Yorkshire.
“It was a really mature performance which is what I wanted for him. He stuck to the script really well. He worked hard. I know that about Albie – he’s desperate to play and do well. Today required a different type of performance.
“Out of possession, getting around the pitch. We know that he’s got quality. There was a couple of incidents there where he’ll probably be annoyed with himself that he didn’t pick the right pass or execute the right pass at times but I think his overall contribution was really good.”
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