Thomas Sandgaard outlines what he wants from next Charlton Athletic manager
Thomas Sandgaard has outlined one key area he wants the next Charlton Athletic manager to focus on – developing even more talent from the club’s academy.
Lee Bowyer resigned as the Addicks boss on Monday morning and is set to take charge at Birmingham City, with an announcement expected today.
Sandgaard is flying into London this week to focus on finding his replacement with Johnnie Jackson, who had been assistant manager under Bowyer, in caretaker charge for tonight’s home match against Bristol Rovers.
“As you know already we are a team who play attacking football and I’d like to get even more emphasis on a very creative midfield that can create chances – I think we had that in the fall,” Sandgaard told the South London Press. “I’d also like to make sure we get a manager in place who puts a lot of emphasis on developing players, not just for their careers but so they become as productive for the club while they are here.
“I’d also like to do even more integrating the academy with the first team, as much as practically possible, so that we get even more of a steady stream of talent coming through the ranks.
“Those are some of the things I’d like to do more of. There are potential motivations of who is going to be driving in that manager position.”
Asked how he assessed Bowyer’s time working under him, Sandgaard said: “Before I took over he stuck by the club and did a tremendous job.
“We put a team together and then he strengthened the team again in January. He got better and better tools to work with. We’re slowly putting ourselves in a position where we have a real chance of the play-offs.
“He has done an amazing job for the club over the last several years and was an important part of the rebuilding. I’m very happy to have worked with Lee. I wish him the best for the future.”
PHOTO: PAUL EDWARDS