‘I’m very proud’ – Steve Gallen issues statement after leaving Charlton Athletic recruitment role

Steve Gallen has released a statement following his departure from Charlton Athletic.

The 49-year-old started working for the Addicks in 2017 and was a senior figure in the player recruitment process.

Gallen initially arrived as head of recruitment and was made director of football in January 2020, a few months after Lee Bowyer’s team won promotion to the Championship after beating Sunderland in the League One play-off final in 2019.

Gallen then took on his final job title in December 2021.

Global Football Partners recently acquired the club from US-based Dane Thomas Sandgaard.

They have brought in Andy Scott as technical director and are also in the process of appointing a performance director.

Gallen issued a statement to the South London Press. He said: “I’ve now worked for two clubs in my career, 19 years at QPR and six years at Charlton. I’m very proud that I’ve worn both badges on my chest.

“There were many ups and downs during those six years but every meeting and every conversation I had I always tried to deal with dignity, humility and professionalism so I could represent Charlton in the best way possible.

“I’ve made some great friends at the football club over the years – in particular Lee Bowyer, Johnnie Jackson, Grant Basey and Joe Francis.

“I’ll never forget the efforts of the SMT team who I worked with closely during covid, they dealt with great difficulties on behalf of the staff and the club. Chris Parkes, Emma Parker, Tony Keohane, Tom Rubashow, Katie Cowling and Ravi Patel. They did so much for the club behind the scenes.

“On a personal level I’ve had some some great times in the last six years, in particular promotion to the Championship on a very small budget, being made a club director and then the director of football.

“In the Championship – against all the odds – we took it to the last game to try to stay up. In the middle of covid we suffered relegation and then on to a full transfer embargo. Myself and Lee put together a team in the last minute which nearly finished in the top six, it was a great effort.

“I want to wish the new ownership, Dean (Holden), his team and all the players the best of luck for the future.

“Above all I want to give a massive thank you to the fans, you all made me feel so welcome here in South-East London and I’m looking forward to coming back to The Valley soon. Up the Addicks!”

PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS