Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones has highlighted the improvements made by defender Macaulay Gillesphey, describing him as a vital part of the Addicks’ backline.
Since joining from Plymouth Argyle in the 2024 winter transfer window, the 29-year-old has established himself as a key player for Charlton. Jones, who has spoken throughout the season about Gillesphey’s development, reiterated his admiration for the defender’s progress.
‘He is in a Really Good Place’
Gillesphey’s ability to combine aggression with technical skill has made him an asset for Charlton in both defensive and attacking phases of play.
“He’s really aggressive out of possession and wins his headers,” said Jones. “He steps in and he is bold. He doesn’t sit in just as a static defender, he steps in and gives us that aggression to go after teams.
“In possession he is as good as there is in the division. His range of passing is as good as I’ve ever worked with. He has chipped in with goals. Anything else you need there?”
Despite his consistency, Jones admitted that he rarely showers Gillesphey with praise but believes the defender understands the faith the coaching staff have in him.
“He is in a really good place. He is so low-maintenance. I never have to tell him how well he is doing, I probably berate him more than I actually big him up – but I pick him every week, so he should know how I feel about him,” the Charlton boss added.
Gillesphey’s Journey Through Football
Gillesphey started his career at Newcastle United, progressing through the youth academy before making his professional debut in 2015 in a League Cup match against Liverpool. He then enjoyed multiple loan spells at Carlisle United before making a permanent move to the club in 2018.
After leaving Carlisle, the defender moved to Australia to play for Brisbane Roar, where he was named the club’s Player of the Year in the 2019–20 season. He later returned to England in 2021 to sign for Plymouth Argyle, where he gained further experience before securing his move to Charlton.
Writer’s View
Macaulay Gillesphey has quietly become one of Charlton’s most reliable defenders under Nathan Jones. His ability to read the game, win aerial duels, and contribute in possession has been instrumental in the Addicks’ defensive stability.
While Jones may not always vocalise his admiration, his decision to pick Gillesphey week in and week out speaks volumes about his importance to the team. If he continues on this trajectory, he could become one of the standout defenders in League One.
