‘Very, very close’ – Charlton boss Jones on Terry Taylor and prospects of first-team involvement

Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones says that Terry Taylor is “very very close” to making his matchday squad.

The 23-year-old midfielder was signed for an undisclosed fee from Burton Albion in the summer of 2023 but had injury issues in his first campaign with the Addicks.

The South London club were ready to listen to offers for Taylor in the summer transfer window.

His only appearance this season came in the EFL Trophy win over Cambridge United last month.

Some Charlton supporters have questioned why Taylor has not had greater involvement at first-team level with their side losing three in a row in League One.

Asked about the clamour for him to be in the senior set-up, Jones told the South London Press: “Terry is very, very close. Terry is a lot closer. When I first came in, he picked up an injury and there were other ones ahead of him.

“We finished the season and started this season very well. Suddenly now, within a week-and-a-half, I have to rip up the model.

“Those are the decisions I get paid to do. Terry is close and training well – we have had an excellent environment.

“We have to bounce back and we have to get results, otherwise everything gets questioned.

“A week ago, I was being questioned if I was going to a Championship football club and now every single decision I make is being scrutinised. That’s football I suppose.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD