Plymouth boss Lowe expecting Johnnie Jackson to sign long-term boss contract

Plymouth Argyle manager Ryan Lowe reckons Johnnie Jackson is “destined” to be appointed as the permanent Charlton Athletic boss.

The Pilgrims, top of the League One table, will look to end Jackson’s unbeaten record as caretaker manager.

But Lowe, speaking recently on the BBC Football Daily Podcast, said he is waiting for Sky Sports to announce the former Charlton captain has signed a long-term contract.

Jackson was also interviewed on the show.

Lowe said: “I worked with him on the pro license [course], and he’s a top kid, top coach.

“The job certainly has to be his anytime soon. What he has done is he’s gone there, given them a new lease of life – sessions a bit shorter and sharper. More detail in terms of what they want and the results have been proven.

“If you’re open and honest, like I know Jacko is, then that’s why they are getting results and that’s why they have been performing. You’re doing a fantastic job, keep it up and I’m just waiting for Sky Sports to say you have signed a three-and-a-half year contract.”

Former Hull City, Preston and Southend manager Phil Brown was quick to praise Jackson on his coaching abilities.

Brown added: “I signed Johnnie on loan from Spurs back in the day, when I was at Derby in 2005. We had a sticky start, didn’t we Johnnie? I had signed two players from Spurs, but that loan signing took me to six loans and I could play five [because of league rules]. So Johnnie had to come on from the bench or he was out of the team.

“I watched him all the way through – he’s a ready-made coach, he’s ready for management now, we’ve had that conversation many times.

“He will fly, there’s an absolute chance of him flying.I was at the game against Bolton. You started off ever so well, went 1-0 up and then lost the game 4-1. I thought Nigel Adkins might go after that game.

“It’s amazing what happens when you take that first training session, and you lighten the load, the response of the players is almost immaculate.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD