Following Charlton Athletic’s dismissal of Michael Appleton earlier this week, QPR star Gareth Ainsworth and Sheffield Wednesday icon Nigel Pearson have been linked with a return to management.
The Addicks’ head coach, who took over from Dean Holden in September, has faced a difficult festive season and start to 2024 at The Valley, with the club going winless in 12 games. On Tuesday night, the 48-year-old suffered his ultimate blow when he was defeated in the 97th minute by Northampton Town.
A brief statement from the club read: “Charlton Athletic can confirm that Michael Appleton has left the club with immediate effect after being stripped of his duties as head coach. The club would like to thank Michael for his efforts while in charge.”
Curtis Fleming and Jason Pearce will take over as interim managers of the men’s first team until a new manager is selected, the club has confirmed. Charlton also stripped Richard O’Donnell of his first-team coaching duties.
On Wednesday, the board stated, “Our search for the club’s next Men’s First-Team Head Coach is underway.” Given our current situation and everyone’s ambition at the club, it is critical that we choose the proper appointment to take Charlton forward.
“While selecting a new Head Coach is a top priority, we are also mindful that the January transfer window is still open for just over a week. We’ve already signed seven players this month and we’re currently trying to strengthen the
Director: Andy Scott.
“We’d want to thank you for your ongoing, enthusiastic support and tell you that everyone at the club is working hard to turn things around on the pitch. Your assistance will be critical in ensuring that we finish the season as high up the table as possible.”
Several managerial possibilities have been suggested as Appleton’s replacements, with former Southampton and Luton Town manager Nathan Jones leading the pack. Jones hasn’t worked since being fired by the Saints over a year ago, although he was successful with the Hatters despite a limited budget.
Other names on the list include QPR icon Gareth Ainsworth, who was fired by the club last October. The former midfielder, who made 151 appearances for the Rs, lasted only eight months at Loftus Road before leaving following six straight defeats.
Nigel Pearson, the former manager of Bristol City and Leicester City, is another rumoured possibility. The former Sheffield Wednesday star departed his role at Ashton Gate in October after two and a half years.
Former Cambridge United manager Mark Bonner, as well as former Swansea City manager Michael Duff and Grimsby Town’s recently departed Paul Hurst, have all been associated with the role.
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