Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones has revealed he has no intention of leaving the club regardless of how they do in the upcoming League One play-offs.
The 51-year-old made the decision to drop down to the third tier in February 2024, a year after leaving then-Premier League outfit Southampton. He has enjoyed a remarkable spell at The Valley thus far, winning almost 50% of his games in charge.
Having finished the 2023/24 season strongly, there was a real belief that the Addicks could build on that this time around. A stellar second half of the campaign, which saw them beaten just three times in 22 outings, eventually secured a fourth placed finish.
They leapfrogged Wycombe Wanderers on the final day, a feat which holds a big advantage in their upcoming play-off clash. Charlton will have home advantage in the second leg, where they will look to take a lead when the pair meet at Adams Park on Sunday.
Jones Committed To Charlton
The job in which Jones has done in South London has understandably led to speculation that a Championship club could come knocking in the summer. However, the former Luton Town boss insists he has no intention of seeking out other opportunities. Speaking to South London Press, he said:
“It’s nice to be thinking like that – because after the Leyton Orient game (a 2-0 loss in the EFL Trophy in December) I think a lot of people were thinking I’d be out in a different way.
“For me to be just over a year into the project here, I’m very proud of the progress this football club has made. I want to continue that.
“I wasn’t quick in jumping from Luton because I had a number of opportunities and took two projects I felt were right at the time. But I’ve learned from those. I’m extremely happy here.
“We make sane decisions. I have an excellent squad and I have the autonomy when I do my job.
“I love where I live. So I have no desire to leave this football club. I want to be here. I want to build something and I do believe – with pure conviction – we can achieve our goal on a medium term.
“I’m proud to be the manager, because it is a wonderful football club. We’ve had to come through a lot. I’m extremely happy in every aspect of my life and career here. I don’t think anything adverse would happen.”
Writer’s View
Jones’ comments will come as a huge relief for Charlton fans. The last thing they needed ahead of their crucial play-off campaign was speculation surrounding their manager, but that has now been put to bed. It’s also a majoe boost to their future ambitions. Should they fail to earn a place in the Championship, they’ll be confident they can secure a top two finish next season. They won’t be thinking about that right now though.
