“Working like a whirlwind” – Charlton owner praises director of football’s work in closing stages of transfer window

Thomas Sandgaard has praised the work ethic of Steve Gallen – and reckons it is not “impossible” that Charlton’s director of football could pull off another three incoming transfers before Friday’s 5pm deadline.

The Addicks have made 10 signings in the transfer window and did two deals on Tuesday as they brought in centre-back Ryan Inniss on a permanent basis from Crystal Palace and a season-long loan for Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen.

Gallen told the club’s website that there could be as many as three more through the door before the cut off.

“Steve has been working like a whirlwind towards the end of the transfer window,” said Sandgaard, who took control of the SE7 club last month. “There have been some great signings.

“Can we get a few more in? It’s not impossible the way he is working it. We’ll see, they have to be the right players – obviously. They have got to improve the squad.

“It’s about moving the squad as a whole in the direction of a long-term strategy. It’s slowly coming together.”

By the time Sandgaard was able to push through a deal for the football club the salary cap had been voted in by League One.

It has limited the wages that the Addicks are able to offer.

“It’s tough to work with,” said the US-based Danish businessman. “Getting promoted would be very meaningful for us.

“What we have that some other clubs in League One don’t have is a great brand name. It’s a London club and for some players it’s attractive.”