Johnnie Jackson asked about contract talks for Charlton duo Conor Washington and Ben Purrington

Johnnie Jackson has admitted it is difficult to make plans over the long-term futures of his Charlton Athletic players until he is appointed manager on a full-time basis.

The Addicks’ fortunes have improved massively under their former captain’s control. Jackson has been boss in a caretaker capacity since replacing Nigel Adkins at the end of October.

Talks have progressed and it is expected that Jackson will be appointned on a permanent basis soon.

Conor Washington told the South London Press last week that he hoped negotiations over a new contract would start early in 2022. The Northern Ireland international is out of contract after June.

Left wing-back Ben Purrington, nominated for League One Player of the Month for November, is also inside the final seven months of his terms.

“I haven’t signed myself, so it’s difficult for me to forward plan too much,” Jackson told the South London Press. “But they have both been brilliant for me and they are a key part of what I’m trying to do.

“We’re going to need to look at those situations very soon – and our recruitment in January. We need to think about the ones we want to get tied down longer term as well, the ones who are with us.

“All I can say is they are very much part of my plans going forward.”

Purrington had been out of favour under Adkins but has played every minute in the league since Jackson took over, scoring three goals in eight appearances.

“I think I gave him a bit of confidence,” said Jackson. “He can very much be a confidence player at times and in the past has maybe lacked a little bit of confidence.

“The wing-back role has given him a little more freedom and license to pick the ball up higher up the pitch and play forward more.

“He has got the ability and fitness to get into scoring positions. It is not easy to do that defensive side and make the back post.”