Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones has expressed his confidence in Danny Hylton, who has joined the club in a player-coach capacity on a short-term deal.
The 35-year-old striker impressed during a trial period over the summer, earning himself a contract with the League One side. The Addicks have started the season brightly, and are looking up the table, rather than worrying about what is below.
Hylton, a Camden native, became a free agent in June after leaving Northampton Town at the end of last season. Since then, he has been assessing his options in football, ultimately choosing to join Charlton as he transitions into coaching while still being available to play when needed.
Jones praised Hylton’s character and versatility, stating: “Danny is someone I know very, very well who is a true professional. He will be an important member of our squad and coaching team. He will push and educate our players and he will live and breathe the club. When needed, he will be someone we can rely on for something different on the pitch.”
Hylton’s move to Charlton signals the start of his coaching career while still offering competition to the Addicks’ attacking options. Jones added: “This role is the start of his coaching journey, and I have no doubt he will continue to have a positive impact on our group.”
Danny Hylton
Hylton began his professional career with Aldershot Town, where he made his debut in 2006. Over the next six years, he became a key player for the club, scoring 46 goals in 177 appearances. His performances earned him a move to Rotherham United in 2013, although he struggled to establish himself, making only a handful of appearances before being loaned to Bury and AFC Wimbledon.
Hylton found greater success following a move to Oxford United in 2014, where his goal-scoring prowess was on full display. He scored 30 goals in 78 appearances during his two seasons at the club, helping them win promotion to League One in 2016. His strong form earned him a transfer to Luton Town later that year, where he would go on to enjoy arguably the most successful spell of his career. At Luton, Hylton scored 58 goals in 170 appearances, playing a key role in the club’s back-to-back promotions from League Two to the Championship.
After leaving Luton in 2022, Hylton joined Northampton Town, but his time there was brief, with limited impact before departing at the end of the 2022-23 season. Now at Charlton Athletic, Hylton has taken on a player-coach role, signalling the start of his coaching career while still being available to play. His experience and leadership are expected to contribute both on the pitch and in his transition to coaching.
Writers’ View
Danny Hylton’s arrival at Charlton is a shrewd move by Nathan Jones. As a seasoned professional with years of experience in the Football League, Hylton adds valuable leadership and depth to the squad. His player-coach role offers a unique dual benefit; not only can he provide guidance and mentorship to younger players, but he also remains an option for the first team when needed. At 35, he may no longer be at his physical peak, but his intelligence and ability to influence the game in key moments could still prove crucial in the demanding League One campaign. For Charlton, having someone like Hylton, who understands the league and has a wealth of experience, is a significant asset.
Beyond his immediate impact on the pitch, Hylton’s move into coaching represents a long-term advantage for Charlton. The transition from player to coach is often difficult, but Hylton’s professionalism and commitment are clear, making him well-suited for the role. He has already impressed during his trial period over the summer, and his continued presence around the club will provide stability and continuity in the dressing room. Moreover, his understanding of the demands placed on players in the lower leagues means he can help manage the squad both tactically and emotionally, contributing to a well-rounded coaching setup. Hylton’s experience and leadership will likely have a lasting influence at Charlton, both in developing young talent and potentially stepping in when the team needs an extra push on the field.
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