Bindon scores in Japan

Tyler Bindon's good form with New Zealand continued as the on-loan Charlton Athletic defender helped his country reach the final of Kirin Cup in Yokohama.

Having scored in a 3-0 friendly win over China on Sunday, the 21-year-old fired home the first penalty as the All Whites beat Panama 5-3 in a shootout after a 1-1 draw.

New Zealand will face the winners of the tie between Japan and Ecuador in the final on Monday, 5 October.

Bindon joined the Addicks on a season-long loan from Nottingham Forest in August and has made five appearances for the club.

Nigels lose their ultras

Before Palace’s opening home game of the season with Manchester City, the Holmesdale Front released a statement announcing they were “choosing to stop all organised activity as the HF inside the stadium” and cited “never-ending problems with the club up to the present day” among various reasons for the decision.

One of their concerns, relayed in a statement before February’s Conference League first knockout round home leg against Zrinjski Mostar, is a perception that the “club is determined to keep trying to force an American-style ‘experience’ on us”.

Chairman Steve Parish says it is “disappointing” to lose the group from Selhurst but believes there is nothing more Palace could have done, and cites safety and regulatory requirements.

“We’ve embraced them from the day I arrived here, and we’ve used them in our marketing,” he told The New York Times. “I don’t really know what’s at the heart of it. I understand that it’s difficult and frustrating at times — look at Lech Poznan, when they let off all those fireworks (in the opening Europa League match of this season at Selhurst).

“It’s hard because of the rules and regulations we have and the safety group. I understand it (and) we’re a very heavily-regulated society, so it’s frustrating for them sometimes. I don’t think that we could facilitate them any more than we do whilst trying to keep them safe and trying to get within the regulations.”

“I don’t really deal with them. They’re ultras, that’s not really how they roll. They have a dialogue with the people at the club on an ongoing basis. I understand how they feel. There are people that are around football who don’t want that kind of support at football grounds.

“I’ve personally had big battles on their behalf. I’ve been told by ‘the authorities’ on multiple occasions that we should ban the whole group. There’s an element where football fans are pushing back on it, where they want to have a bit more freedom to express themselves, but everything’s banned in England. It’s a fair frustration.”

There has been criticism of what some perceive to be a more ‘manufactured’ atmosphere pre-game and after Palace goals which the HF appear to believe stifles the organic approach they have tried to facilitate. Parish, though, says the choice is not binary.

“You have to be realistic,” he says. “We are a global show. We are putting on a show, and not everybody wants the same things all the time. There’s room for both of those things, but I don’t know a stadium up and down the country that doesn’t do any of the things that we do, and they work really well.

“There is a bit of a frustration sometimes from the fan base that they all have to do what (the HF) want all the time. ‘We have to sing their songs and do what they want, when they want’. Families come and sit in other parts of the stand and stadium and they want to hear some good music. Fans can’t sing the whole time in the lead-up to a game. You can always find a good compromise, and I think we will. Something will come back, and we’ll make it work.

“We loved everything they did. We were hugely supportive, and in the face of some quite vehement opposition. They’ve been an important part of what we’ve done. Anybody that wants to do something similar, we’re trying to accommodate it as much as we can, but not everything stays the same all the time."

 

 

Shelvey sacrificed prom for football

Jonjo Shelvey recalls the start of his career with Charlton in an interesting in depth interview with Four Four Two.

The interviewer noted that he became Charlton's youngest player when he made his debut at 16.  How did he handle the pressure?   (Question from Sophie Scott from Greenwich)

Shelvey responded: 'I played in the game on the Saturday, we lost 3-0 away to Barnsley, then on the Monday I was walking around school very proud, giving it big licks!   Charlton had just been relegated a week beforehand, so they were giving youth a chance, and it was a great experience,   I wasn't overawed - I felt comfortable as I'd been training with the first team squad since I wss 14.'

'Funnily enough, after the game, I had to ask the manager Alan Pardew if I could still take a girl to that summer's school prom as I needed to let her know.  He just laughed and said, "Tell the girl you can't make it sadly as you'll be on Charlton's pre-season tour."'

Samuel Henderson from Erith asked. 'How did you fit into the dressing room at Charlton and how did the older professionals react to you?'

Shelvey replied: 'There were some good pros in there who treated me well - guys like Matt Holland, Ben Thatcher, Christian Dailly, and Chris Iwelumo.   I didn't drive at the time so some of them gave me lifts to training.  I was OK as I always had a lot of confidence.   In the dressing room, I remember Dean Burton saying to me, "Young lad, get up and make the teas."  I just shot straight back, "I'll make the teas when you're better than me."  He just laughed and said "Yeah, that's fair."  I played up front with Dean, so I could get away with it.'

Tyreece Campbell could be heading for PL

Last year he was the favourite scapegoat player of many Charlton fans, but this morning Jamaican international; Tyreece Campbell is the subject of a special feature in the Football League Paper.

The FLP's resident expert Guy Branston has selected Campbell as one of three EFL starlets with Premier League potential.   He stats: 'The kid reminds of the quality wingers we've seen step up from the Championship over the years like Wilfred Zaha.'

'He's rapid, he moves fantastically and he's as slick as anything.  He's already played over 150 games by the age of 22 and I think he's got much more development to come.  He's going to get better and  better.'

Anthony Hayes, who coached Campbell from the age of 13, commented: 'People ask me who's the best young player I've worked with and for many years now I've said the one with the highest potential is Tyreece.  I still think he's only beginning to scratch the surface.'

Steve Avory, who spotted Campbell playing for a Southwark club at the age of nine, commented: 'The thing that always excited me about Tyreece was his ability to manage the ball at close quarters.  He has that one-v-one ability to go past players at speed with the dribble and get into goal scoring positions as a result of it.  And he was always a consistent goal scorer right through the academy journey.'

The article states that Campbell operates as a modern-day inside forward, preparing to use his speed and dribbling ability to cut inside off the left wing and take shots with his right football rather than hit the byline and provide crosses.

'Versus other Championship wide players and attacking midfielders, Campbell ranks in the top six for non-penalty goals, the top four for shot accuracy and the top two for goals per shot,'

'He has the composure and quality to fashion goal scoring opportunities from even low value chances.  For a team like Charlton who rarely dominate possession and take relatively few shots, it is an invaluable quality.'

We need simplicity after Cardiff says leading Charlton fan

Jonathan Grade remarked on X the other day that after winning at West Ham Charlton fans said we were heading for the Premiership, lose at Cardiff and we're going to be relegated.  'No perspectiv.' he rightly said.

I have no idea who Paul Sullivan is and why the BBC have selected him as the spokesperson for Charlton fans, but what he says is much more intelligent than a lot of the rubbish on social media.  Mind you, that is a low bar.

'Simplicity' is the key after Cardiff: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cr9dw2p02y2go

Encouraging signs at U21 victory

Nathan Jones has left his Welsh fastness and was at the U21 game, reports Richard Cawley. ‘Junior Nkeng definitely catching the eye. Hit the crossbar in the first half (might also have been a cross rather than shot). Wicked low cross in the second period which a Sheffield United player managed to lift over for a corner.

Winger Reuben Reid has been very good. Just added a third goal for the Addicks. Cut in off the left and a lovely curled finish into the bottom right corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.

A 3-1 victory over Sheffield United at The Valley - goals from Junior Nkeng, Harvey Knibbs and Reuben Reid. Josh Edwards played the first 45 minutes. Penalty save by Logan Williams in the 49th minute kept the hosts' 2-1 ahead, denying Christopher Eadie a second goal of the afternoon.’

Varney on Curbs

Chatting with Curbs: a photo from a card Alan sent me when I was in hospital for the first time ever

Richard Cawley's interviews with Peter Varney about key figures at Charlton have been fascinating and the latest is about Curbs himself.   Print volumes are out of date but it would have been great to have all the interviews brought together in one place.

Here are a few key excerpts from the interview which is available on the South London Press Charlton Substack page.

'He had an unbelievable work ethic. He treated the club’s money as his money. I can think of ones who followed him that didn’t view it that way and had the mentality of ‘just get me another player’.  Why was he like that? Well, he is an east London boy. I think his upbringing was always about hard work.   The cornerstone of Curbs’ success was hard work and being good tactically, in terms of how he would set the side up.

Without demeaning anything Jimmy Seed did - you can take teams to promotion, through the leagues and cup success - but the game in those days was nothing like when Charlton were in the Premier League. 

We had fairly settled sides. The game was so fast. We had come up from a division, in those days, where a club didn’t have the same fitness levels as a team like Arsenal. But Curbs got Charlton’s team to compete.

For me it was always Alan that was our best-ever manager. That’s why when Thomas Sandgaard became the new owner of Charlton, I said I found it difficult to comprehend why he hadn’t been acknowledged in some way. Voice of The Valley editor Rick Everitt helped me get the message out there in February 2021, calling for Curbs to be recognised.

There probably were disagreements, but not over what you probably would think it would be about. It would be operational issues because I’d like to think, if you were talking to him, that I never expressed opinions on players or anything like that. 

You’ve got to remember that Charlton had 17 directors. What tended to happen, and it’s not a criticism of them, is that when a manager came to a meeting and, let’s say, you have lost a game, people would go: ‘Do we practise corners?’ This happened.

Alan wanted to see out the final year of his contract but he felt there were clauses in his terms that were prohibitive to being able to go and test himself in the Champions League. I won’t give you the figures, but it was a financial penalty, so if Liverpool wanted him as their manager they had to pay Charlton ‘x’ million. That was considered to be a block on testing himself at the very top level of the game.'

A memory of my own

The European Commission rang me up one day (obviously this was before Brexit) and said that they hadn't got anyone to head up a mission to an environmental conference in Kunming in south-west China and would I step in?

One thing I learnt from that visit is never underestimate the Chinese.   My minder in Beijing was a very smart young woman from the Department of Party History who accompanied me to all the sights.   I did manage to break away once and use a smattering of Mandarin to get a cab to an alley where I knew I could buy wall hangings with US dollars.

In Kunming the local television wanted to interview me about air pollution and my minder from the EU office in Beijing gave me the go ahead.  I was then confronted with statistics about air pollution in Greenwich.

The Chinese knew that I was interested in football and took me to look at training facilities used by the national team of which I was critical.  Probably coincidence, but I wss watching national television one evening and there was a feature on how Curbs and Keith Peacock worked together.   I might add that these days China National Radio calls me 'Whine' Grant.

The club was interested in the possibility of a tour in China and/or Japan, but Curbs wasn't keen.  I was asked to have a quiet word to brief him about the two countries.  I knew it was hopeless when he mentioned that the 'Emoress of China' had just had a baby.  He was a football genius (and he had his finances looked after very well), but currentt affairs was not his suit.

Latest Championship club to risk points deduction

Sheffield United could face a 12 points deduction from the EFL because of court cases: https://footballeconomyv2.blogspot.com/2026/09/legal-worries-at-blades.html

Euell starts with an away point

Interim Preston North End first team coach Jason Euell secured a 2-2 draw at the Super Hoops on Saturday.   His side was 2-0 ahead at the break.   Despite some tough talk by him to the team at half time, 10-man QPR improved in the second half and scored a last minute equaliser.

Reflecting on his personal pride in the experience of managing PNE after the 2-2 draw at QPR, the 49-year old said: “I enjoyed it. It's something that I'm familiar with, yes, at different levels and at different stakes, but I've done enough games as an assistant, first and coach, to get to know what it's like and the touchline."

“I enjoyed every minute of it, every moment. Sometimes it's that stepping back, giving yourself a little bit of a breather and thinking space to go again, but it's just wanting to focus on the players and give them as much support as I can.”

He admitted it had been a tough week for people at the club with change coming so soon in a season, but says it has been business as usual for most, and it will be until a new manager comes in.

Charlton down to 9th. Jones: Rwy'n cymryd cyfrifoldeb llawn

Charlton fell outside the expanded play off places to ninth after Wolves beat West Brom 1-0 yesterday.  Fortunately, Norwich lost at home to Bolton.  The Addicks are three ways down the form table.

Nathan Jones branded the performance of his Charlton Athletic side as “inept” after a 3-1 loss at Cardiff City before he disappeared into the Welsh valleys.  Disappointing is an understatement,” he told Richard Cawley. “The positives were (Arthur) Okonkwo, (Miles) Leaburn and the three clear cut chances we had. Apart from that we were out-battled, out-passed and out-run for the majority of the game.”   (Some fans thought that Conor Coventry, who has been called up for Ireland, had a decent game.

“I just didn’t recognise some of the players out there. I take full responsibility, because I prepared the team. But stuff that we prepare and that we do on a regular basis, I didn’t see today.

“You can’t build a performance if you don’t work hard, if you don’t press, if you don’t get on second balls and you don’t do the basics well. When you do win the ball back, eventually, you just keep giving it away. Some of the times were unopposed and we didn’t show any quality. Those things mean you’re in for a tough afternoon.  Our intensity, work-rate and how we went about it was poor. And we’d had a good week of training.”

Charlton have missed Nathaniel Chalobah’s composure in the middle of the pitch. The summer signing, who has had a chequered injury record prior to signing a one-year contract in August, has missed the last five Championship matches.

Ouma, who is on a season-long loan from Sparta Prague, is struggling to show why he was coveted by the Addicks..

Campbell did not escape criticism despite once again showing a clinical touch when put through by Bindon.  The Jamaican international is joint third for goals in the Championship - on the same amount as West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen and former Addicks loanee Lyndon Dykes.

“He has to learn the game,” said Jones. “There are times he has to affect the game without the ball. He affects it constantly with the ball - he is a runner, he got in a few times and took his goal really well.  But you have to affect it out of possession as well, be in good positions and that is what he has to learn.”

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: Jones has condemned himself out of his own mouth.   Top half of the table before the international break is not acceptable.  Now is the time for the board to show courage.’

 

 

Defeat in the Welsh capital sees Charlton slip down the table

Cardiff City secured their first league win back in the Championship, as Jack Moylan scored twice on the way to a 3-1 victory over Charlton Athletic.   The Addicks fell to 8^th in the table pending this afternoon’s results.   Richard Cawley commented that Charlton were clearly second best.

However, they are still ahead of Millwall.  After going 2-0 ahead at the Toolbox, an improved performance by West Ham in the second half saw them score two goals.  ‘Last Ditch’ Dykes had an opportunity to make it 3-2 at the death but sent the ball way over the goal.   The whole occasion was degraded by commentary from Ian Dowie, proving that there is life after football death.

The commentators in the preamble to the televised WSL match at The Valley noted that Charlton were a club and team used to adversity on and off the pitch.  And so it proved with the Addicks going down 1-4 to the well-funded London City Lionesses.   At least they scored their first WSL goal and it was a stunner from distance.

The attendance was sparse at The Valley and many Addicks departed at dawn to make the trek to Cardiff.  Fortunately, the national border is free of controls for now.

In the Welsh capital, the Bluebirds took the lead after eight minutes, as Alex Robertson found Yousef Salech on the edge of the Charlton box, and the Cardiff striker's deft touch played through Moylan, who in turn found the bottom corner.

The hosts had their second midway through the first half, when Moylan turned provider for Salech, who shrugged off Tyler Bindon before beating Okonkwo from close range.

Charlton found a route back into the game before the half-hour mark, as Bindon's through ball played in Tyreece Campbell, and the Jamaica international slid the ball under Nathan Trott to halve the deficit.

Cardiff almost had their third two minutes later in an increasingly end-to-end first half, but Moylan was denied a clean sight of goal by an excellent last-ditch block from Charlton skipper Lloyd Jones.

The Bluebirds should have restored their two-goal cushion on 38 minutes as Moylan's header at the back post was clawed off the line by Okonkwo, only for Joel Colwill to get the rebound all wrong and miss the target from six yards out.

And the visitors once again had Okonkwo to thank for keeping the score 2-1 with half-time approaching, as the on-loan Wrexham goalkeeper scrambled across his line to stop what looked destined to be Salech's second of the game.

Having seen his side struggle as the first half wore on, Charlton boss Nathan Jones made two changes at the break as Amari'i Bell and Timothy Ouma replaced Milenic Ali and Bindon.

And it was the visitors who had the first big chance of the second half, as former Cardiff man Karlan Grant was played through on goal but could only find the side-netting.

The Bluebirds responded with a good chance of their own, Joel Bagan's cross finding Colwill at the back post, but Okonkwo was equal to the effort once again.

After seeing countless chances come and go, Cardiff eventually restored their two-goal lead on the hour mark, as summer-signing Moylan smashed an effort in off the post from the edge of the 18-yard box.

Bagan came close to adding a fourth for the Bluebirds, but his effort curled away from the far post and behind for a goal-kick.  Ollie Tanner was next to threaten, as he drove into the Charlton box and beat Bell but was denied by the outstretched leg of Okonkwo.

Charlton rarely threatened in the second half but should have pulled one back when substitute Charlie Kelman found himself one-on-one with Trott; however, he was denied what would have been a goal with his first touch by the Cardiff keeper.

Moylan almost added a spectacular fourth, but his curling effort from distance drifted just wide before he was replaced to a standing ovation by the home supporters, Calum Scanlon coming on in his place.

Victory for the Bluebirds ends what has been a tough return to the second flight, but they go into the international break having broken their winless streak at the eighth time of asking.

For Charlton, it is now five games without a win, having previously sat top of the Championship after three successive victories to start the campaign.

AI avatar Desmond from Deal says: ‘At least the three week international break will give the board the time to sack Jones and find a quality replacement.’

 

 

Another draw at Cardiff?

Nathan Jones goes to his native heath tomorrow for the match at Cardiff.   Charlton fans may want to read the result off the table, but it is too early in the season for that, indeed I always think it is a bad idea.   I suspect that it may confirm Charlton's status as draw specialists.

Perhaps not a bad time to be away from South-East London as 400 police are being deployed to the dockers' derby at the Toolbox.

The Bluebirds are yet to win a league game since returning to the second tier this season while Charlton's early form has deserted them with no victory from their past four outings

Each of the past three league matches between Cardiff City and Charlton Athletic have been drawn, with this the first since a 0-0 stalemate in June 2020.  Charlton have lost five of their past six away league games at Welsh clubs (D1), although their last win was at Cardiff in March 2015 (2-1).

Along with Burnley, Cardiff are one of two sides yet to win a game in the Championship this season (P7 W0 D4 L3). Only in 1964-65 (11), 1989-90 (8), and 2018-19 (8) have the Bluebirds ever failed to win their first 8+ games of a league campaign.

Charlton are winless in four league games (D3 L1), failing to score in their past three – the Addicks' longest scoreless streak since March 2023 (4 in a row).

Only Millwall (58.5%) have won a higher proportion of their aerial duels in the Championship so far this season than Charlton (54.8%), while only Lincoln (1,907) have attempted fewer passes than the Addicks (2,190).

Four Four Two predicted a 18th place finish for Cardiff at the beginning of the season, saying that their limitations may restrict progress.  The fan forecast mid-table.  He also named Nathan Jones as pantomime villain: 'He is a Cardiff fan and incredibly dramatic.'

Presumably he can reply to any insults in Cymraeg.

NYT looks at prospects for sale of Charlton franchise

Andrew Umbers, a partner at London-based Oakwell Sports Advisory, has talked to the New York Times about seeking investors in Charlton.

“The introduction of tighter financial rules and increased regulation has made English football more attractive to sophisticated, professional investors, not less attractive, as those investors value good governance and don’t like risk,” said Umbers, whose firm is running the process to sell Championship side Charlton Athletic.   [My understanding is that the search is for an additional investor, but a really good ownership offer would be considered].

He also believes the much-anticipated agreement on a new financial distribution deal between the Premier League and the EFL will make the latter’s clubs more desirable. And he was not the only expert to make this point.

However, another interviewee warned: “The Championship is the most expensive lottery ticket in world sport. A wage-bill built for a promotion push does not shrink when the promotion doesn’t arrive, and by year three you are running a Premier League cost base on Championship revenue.”

“It is very easy to make money in PowerPoint and Excel — the model always says yes. Then you own the club and find out how hard it is — your best striker has a hamstring strain, your manager has an agent, your supporters have an opinion, and none of those three things is in the spreadsheet. Everyone thought player-trading is easy and you can copy Moneyball.  I’ve lost count of people who got that part of their investment thesis wrong.”

Any prospective buyer of the Addicks would soon find out that the franchise only consisted of EFL membership and the players with the stadium and training ground leased.

Bowyer: 'The Den never fazed me.'

A wintry midweek night in Huddersfield, a thin scattering of Addicks in the away end. Suddenly Lee Bowyer, then at Leeds, appears in the row in front of me.   As he says in an interview with Richard Cawley, ‘I’m an ordinary sort of guy.’   (As I recall, we won).

The first of this fascinating two-part interview covers his career as a player, the second part will look at his time managing at Charlton.  As a taster, I am reproducing his remarks on playing at the rust bucket.

Bowyer was sent off at The Den – Kim Grant scored twice to secure maximum points - against Millwall. Bowyer produced an acrobatic finish in the return fixture, in March 1996, as Charlton once again prevailed 2-0. It is the last time Charlton have vanquished the Lions.

So did he feel intimidated playing at the Lions’ home ground?   [aka 'The Rust Bucket'] “I was fearless,” said Bowyer. “The Den never fazed me. My red card was down to my inexperience and being naive. I got sent off for two bookable offences and I never touched either player.

“I went to make a tackle, Alex Rae laid the ball off, jumped in the air and I got booked. If I had been further along in my career then I would never have made that mistake - I wouldn’t even have tried to make the second tackle (on Ricky Newman).

“It was a good goal at The Valley. Almost an overhead kick - with my left foot. I don’t even know how I did it, but it went in. The most important thing was that we beat them.

“It’s madness we haven’t done it again.   That still hurts me now, because I’ve been manager (at Charlton). Both times we lost against them by one goal. I remember the home game during Covid. We started the better side, had some half-chances before the match evened itself out. Late on their centre-half Jake Cooper smashed in after a ricochet. I was thinking: ‘Wow, you don’t deserve that’. That’s football though - it is the way it goes.”

On other matters, thanks to Charlton scourge Lord Young of Acton (‘Tobes’) reaching out and offering to host me at a home game at Loftus Road.   Thanks, but no thanks.  But I regard our little feud as being over.   He is an authentic football fan, even if he has the misfortune to support QPR.

 

Josh Edwards back on the pitch

Richard Cawley reports: 'Some excellent news on Sunday, with Josh Edwards making his playing return in Charlton U21s’ 2-2 draw against Sheffield Wednesday.The Scottish full-back, who has not featured at first-team level for pretty much a year due to an ankle injury, got 45 minutes under his belt at Hillsborough.'

I have now had time to check what Lord Young of Acton had to said about QPR's draw at The Valley (we were also honoured by the presence of Giles Coren and his son): 'with the treatment room filling up we need to be beating teams like Charlton. Tougher opposition will be coming our way after the break and we’re unlikely to replicate dominant displays like this. After a flying start, the R’s are reverting to type and another mid-table finish now looks more likely than the play-offs.'

I shall be looking out for any more attacks on Charlton or Rick Everitt in the Spectator, but it looks as if Lord Gove has given up his campaign.

Euell takes charge in the Championship

Following the sacking of Paul Heckingbottom, Jason Euell has been appointed interim first team coach at Preston North End.  His first challenge before the international break is a trip to QPR.

Jason has most recently had a coaching role at Cambridge United, before then he was at Bristol City.

The Lillywhites are currently second bottom of the Championship after six defeats in seven games.  A club statement said that 'Football is a results business.'

Game better than the score

Millenic Alli was guilty of a glaring miss against his former club Portsmouth to the delight of their fans as the Addicks failed to take their chances at The Valley.    However, moaners have been relatively quiet as it was felt that the performance was better than the score.    Campbell put in a number of good crosses but there was no red shirt to connect.

In any event Charlton are still 6th in the table and most fans would have taken that at the start of the season.   It was certainly not a bore draw despite the scoreline replicating that against QPR.

Alli was on loan at Portsmouth last season before his £1.5m summer move from Luton Town and he squandered a great opportunity to break the deadlock when he blazed over from close range.

Charlton have not lost a Championship game at home since 22 April and dropped a place to sixth, but they will feel they could have taken all three points to maintain their fine start to the season.

Conor Shaughnessy, Abu Kamara and Adrian Segecic went closest for Portsmouth and the draw continues to inch John Mousinho's side away from the bottom end of the table.

Charlton created the better chances, while Portsmouth shaded possession without doing much with the ball, and Pompey goalkeeper Daniel Bielica saved Miles Leaburn's shot low down.  Leaburn, Tyreece Campbell and Oliver Skipp missed chances before Bielica saved Karlan Grant's fierce drive.

Then came Alli's moment to forget. In the 32nd minute, Campbell crossed to the Irish winger, who ballooned his shot over from just six yards out to the delight of the away fans, who booed him mercilessly because of his disappointing loan spell with them during the second half of last season.

Alli was also denied by Bielica, while Charlton goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo kept out a Shaughnessy header from Portsmouth's first effort on target just before half-time.

Spurred on by that effort, Kamara forced a save from Okonkwo just 18 seconds into the second half with a shot from the edge of the area.

Portsmouth might have snatched it late on through Segecic, who should have done better when his shot from close range was saved by Okonkwo to earn another clean sheet.

There was some criticism of Charlton making only one substitution.

Nathan Jones told BBC Radio London:

"I thought the performance was really good. In the first half especially, I thought we were really fluid. I thought we created some excellent chances, some really good situations.

"We looked a threat and we controlled the game. I thought our midfield two were excellent, our wide players carried a threat, and we probably had the only absolute clear chance of the game, and it was a clear-cut chance.

"In terms of that, we're probably just a little bit frustrated we haven't won it because I think if we'd have scored the first goal, then we're very difficult to beat here."

  

In their pomp?

Torquay: I shall be trundling up the M5 in a coach when we kick off.   After West Ham's thrashing of Wrexham at the London Stadium last night, our win there looks even more creditable.

I think we have played Portsmouth more than any other team.   I know that we lost both games last season and Pompey have lost only two of our last visits to The Valley.   But I still fancy our chances this afternoon, but not by a big margin.    We have\ the lowest expected goals score in the division.  Only three sides have lower shots.

We last lost three games in a row to Pompey in 1983.   Another home draw?

Portsmouth boss John Moushino thinks they have not created enough opportunities and have found it hard to break sides down.   They have looked vulnerable when they have lost the ball, he says.

17th in the table, they hope to build on their 1-0 home win over Cardiff last Saturday.

Sad memories of the abandoned fixture last season.

Not so bad

Torquay: I have already seen some online moaning about this evening's 0-0 draw with QPR.   I am not that disappointed as I had it down as 1-1 in the Badger League.   Not a surprise result for a London derby.

Charlton go 5th, although a win could have seen them top the table.  A Tyreece Campbell effort in the first half was ruled out as offside.

Richard Cawley reports that Nathan Jones was very unhappy about the offside call.

Miles Leaburn had to go off injured at half time.

It was clean sheet and Arthur Okonkwo made a great save with his left leg after Tyler Bindon lost the ball.

Not a great match, but it does not surprise me that the Super Hoops were unable to take advantage of the chances they created.

Bring on the Super Hoops

I am taking a week's break in Devon so will be posting more sparsely than usual.  Hence, I am looking at Wednesday's fixture against QPR.

I have looked at the goals that Stoke scored us against us and I think they were unstoppable. The penalty really punctured our confidence which looks more fragile than it should be.

My mother always maintained that referees in general and northern referees in particular had it in for Charlton.  At the time I was embarrassed when she issued an invitation to the referee to return quickly from the northern outpost (usually some minor mill town) from which he had come, but maybe she had a point.

Yesterday's refereeing display was of the worst I have seen involving Charlton and there have been a few. Steve Sutherland OBE, who normally refrains from criticising officials, said it was a disgrace.

That doesn't excuse a poor Charlton performance, but let's look forward to Wednesday.  Today's Football League Paper has a double page feature on 'Surprise package QPR's flying start' which looks a bit silly given their 0-1 home defeat by Boro.  From what I saw of the game the Super Hoops failed to be clinical in front of goal despite sustained pressure in the second half.

In my view the real surprise package are Swansea City.  I would like to put this down to my granddaughter's arrival in Abertawe. but she has no interest in football.   I see that Cyril the Swan was on the pitch yesterday.

A lot of interest with QPR focuses on their barking fans.   I messaged Lord Young of Acton ('Tobes') to see whether he intended to renew his feud with Rick Everitt at The Valley, but reply has come there none.

One of the amusing aspects of the Spectator (or Sextator has former employee Kemi Badenoch has called it) is the willingness of the columnists to slag each other off.  Hence in a recent column Rachel Johnson (for it is she, Bozza's sister) said that Lord Young was an unusual case of reverse charisma.  His bald pate only had to enter a room for several people to hate him instantly.

QPR is also the favourite club of minor celebrities.  Step forward, Giles Coren.  He writes restaurant reviews for The Times (never south of the river) and pens 'amusing' columns about his life in Kentish Town.  He has occasionally hosted 'back to the future' television campaigns, always looking hopelessly smug.

It is always difficult to have a relative who is more famous.   A friend of mine was a novelist (she eventually won the Booker Prize, on which I got 7-1 odds, and became a dame commander).  I had to spend a lot of time at my first wedding reception shooing away people who wanted to talk to her.   Her husband had a successful career in his own right and was understandably irritated by press profiles naming him as 'Mr "Susan Smith"'.

Coren's sister is the 'Queen of the Quizzes', Victoria Coren Mitchell.   She hosts her own quiz, the lateral thinking Only Connect, as well as appearances on Wilty and Have I Got News For You.   She is also an international poker player.  Husband David Mitchell claims to know nothing about football.  The same could be applied to supporters of QPR.

Charlton hammered at Stoke

There was widespread criticism of team selection as Charlton's poor away record at Stoke continued with a 4-0 defeat, not helped by some really shocking refereeing.

Charlton remain 3rd pending later results with four teams on seven points and their goal difference eroded.

They fell back to 6th, one point ahead of Millwall who won 4-0 at home with two goals scored by 'Last Ditch' Dykes.

Charlton started brightly against Stoke on a sunny afternoon in the Potteries, but after 13 minutes the home side were awarded a soft penalty from which they scored.  The penalty was awarded after a Stoke corner which saw two players go to the ground.

Referee Bobby Madley (41) is from Wakefield.  He was dismissed by the professional referees organisation after a video in which he had mocked a disabled person was publicised.  After refereeing in the lower leagues in Norway and for a six a side World Cup in Crete, he was reinstated, but is not allowed near the top flight.

By half time the Addicks were 4-0 behind.  Conor Coventry was brought on after the break.

By this time it was effectively game over,  Stoke were happy to sit on their lead and make some experimental substitutions.

Dan McNamara was sent off for a second yellow.  Apparently he suggested that the referee should award a yellow card after a crunching tackle on Miles Leaburn.

At least the Addickted kept singing.  VFR was heard loud and clear.   The Stoke support were advised that they were ****.  '4-0 up and you still don't sing.'

A high challenge on Skipp was given as a foul not  a yellow as the referee showed his contempt for southern softies.

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: 'It looks as if Charlton are going to get the hammering I predicted.  Jones' luck has finally run out.  The only question now is whether the board will let him go before it is too late.'

Welcome Otto Tiitinen

The Finnish lakeland (I only had a black and white camera in 1966)

He has joined the Academy, initially on a year's loan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otto_Tiitinen

There is an option within the move to make it permanent.  He will join the Under 21 set up.

Many of us remember Finnish international Jonatan Johansson.   I went to see Charlton play at Oulu in Northern Finland  when he was with us (2-2 draw).

He had 106 caps for Finland and is currently an academy coach at Rangers.

I first went to Finland at the age of 19 and I have returned many times.  I even managed to learn a little Finnish!

Stoke get boost to morale

Stoke City had a busy transfer window deadline day that included bringing in Palace midfielder Justin Deveney on a four year deal and supremo Mark Robins thinks that the signings will bring fresh energy to the team.

Robbins claims that morale was high and the feeling in the squad positive even before their 1-0 midweek victory over Norwich started their season,. Now they are looking forward taking all three points off Charlton tomorrow at the 12.30 kick off.

Stoke have lost only one of their last fourteen home game against the Addicks.   They have won seven of the last eight, including three in a row.

There is concern about whether the new signings from diverse sources have had tine to integrate, but the assumption is that they will be able to build on the result against Norwich, following the 4-1 defeat at Wolves last Saturday.

Stoke used a 3-4-3 system against the Canaries and although they looked exposed at times, they were able to find the decisive goal through a deflection.  Having had barely any time to work on the change in system, Stoke were aggressive in their press when Norwich tried to play out from the back and resolute when they dropped into a low block.

While the team became stretched at times and lone striker George Hirst found himself isolated a little too often, there were times when they were able to get bodies forward in numbers, push the wing-backs high and cause the visitors problems.

Ethan Galbraith looked like a brilliant signing. He's so effective in possession in tight areas, helps the team build from deep and scored his second goal of the young season with a fine driven shot from the edge of the box.

Luke Graham put in his best performance of the season as he gets used to the rigours of the Championship after making the move from the Scottish Premiership, while American full-back Luca Bombino put in a debut full of quality and personality just a day or two after arriving in England.

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: 'West Brom was just the hors d'oeuvres.   One West Brom fan said that we looked like relegation material.  Jones' hastily assembled squad of "potentials" will be found out tomorrow.'

Season over for Sichenje

Nathan Jones has indicated that Charlton Athletic will look to secure Micah Mbick on a new contract.  The 19-year-old striker was the subject of a £5million bid from Southampton in the last few days of the summer transfer window.

The Saints had also indicated there would be another £2m in add-ons inserted into the move.

Jones also confirmed to South London Spor that Collins Sichenje is not set to feature again in the current campaign.   The Kenyan centre-back suffered a knee injury against Tottenham last week.

“That is pretty much the season,” said Jones. “He has had his operation today. That’s a tough one for us and for him. He’s had a tough time but he will come back stronger. Our thoughts are with him. Now it is about his recovery and how he comes back from this.”

Away point secured

The run of draws at The Hawthorns between West Brom and Charlton at The Hawthorns continued tonight.

Unbeaten Charlton had to come from behind to earn a point at The Hawthorns as they battled their way to a draw with resurgent West Bromwich Albion.

After a poor first half, Albion looked like they might be on their way to a second successive home Championship win on 59 minutes when Baggies left-back Callum Styles powered home a sumptuous 20-yard left-foot volley.

But the Addicks equalised 10 minutes later when Miles Leaburn nodded back for Tyreece Campbell to drill home a leveller from eight yards.

Although their winning start to the season has come to an end, Nathan Jones' Charlton remain third, having lost their leadership of the early season table the night before, with Albion in seventh.

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: 'As I forecast the wheels are coming off and Jones has been found out.'

West Brom hope to bag three points

The last three fixtures between West Bromwich Albion and Charlton Athletic at The Hawthorns have all ended level (1-1 February 2026, 2-2 October 2019 and 2-2 in January 2008).   Seven of the last ten meetings in all competitions have ended level. Albion have won two of the other three, with Charlton claiming one victory. 

Charlton are unbeaten in their last three games against the Albion. The Baggies' last win against the Addicks was a 1-0 triumph at The Valley in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup in January 2020. 

Albion's last home win against Charlton came in December 2007 - a 4-2 success in the second tier. Zoltan Gera bagged a brace, with Roman Bednar and Kevin Phillips also on target. The Addicks haven't won at The Hawthorns since September 2005 when Danny Murphy's double helped them to a 2-1 Premier League victory.

The Baggies are unbeaten in eight home matches - the first of which was a 1-1 draw with Charlton in February. They've won three of those, drawing the other five.  There have been at least three goals scored in all of Albion's last six games, with 24 notched in total. Both teams have found the net in all six of those matches.

Albion will be hoping to secure back-to-back home victories for the first time since a run of two between November and December of 2025 when they beat Swansea City and Sheffield United. 

Midfielder Isaac Price and striker JJ Morgan have both scored four goals each already this season. Together, they've notched two thirds of Albion's strikes so far in 2026/27.

The Baggies lost 3-1 at Boro on Saturday and boss James Morrison thought that they had played well but had made silly errors. He said that it was the timing of goals that was most frustrating at the moment.

My wife, who comes from Oldbury, reminds me that back in the day the Baggies were known as the Throstles.  Their transfer window is assessed here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cgjq5yeqlq1o

AI avatar Desmond from Deal says: 'Jones can't ride his luck any longer and tonight sees the start of the slide down the table.'

Straight in the skip?

Humorists have been posting pictures of skips to commemorate our last loan signing of the transfer window.

They have been paying too much attention to Leicester fans who have now replaced the Addickted as the biggest moaners in the EFL.

I think that defensive midfielder is one of the most crucial yet underrated positions in football.  If Skipp has faults, Nathan Jones is the man to eradicate them.

Career details here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Skipp

There is still uncertainty about the future of club captain Greg Docherty as the window has not closed in the US.

He has now left the club my mutual consent.  Thanks for all your efforts and good wishes for your future whether it is across the pond or north of the border.

Natasha Everitt commented: 'One of the first NJ signings to really bring that fire and passion back. Definition of playing for the badge which is something we missed for years. Shame it’s come to an end but his role won’t be forgotten.'

Nkeng could be signing No.10

Richard Cawley reports: 'Charlton Athletic are closing in on a deal for exciting AFC Wimbledon winger Junior Nkeng.

The former Tottenham youngster, who only turned 19 earlier this month, is set to become the Addicks’ 10th signing of the summer transfer window.

Nkeng has not featured heavily for the Dons in the current campaign due to speculation over his future.  Nottingham Forest and Lecce are believed to have weighed up moves for the teenager, who was thought to be available for less than seven figures.

One source told South London Sport: Charlton Athletic Edition: “He is basically Tyreece Campbell Mk II - pacey, direct and fearless.”

The Addicks have switched their focus when it comes to strengthening the flanks after they pulled out of a permanent transfer for Crystal Palace’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.'

Career details for the wing back/winger who was born in Barcelona: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junior_Nkeng

Charlton's profile improves

Charlton's profile continues to improve.   Not only is the New York Times suddenly taking the club seriously as a promising soccer franchise, but the BBC is now inviting a fan to write about the club's week: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cy4z8k8pdyvo

One word of caution.  Any American financier looking for a soccer franchise will soon realise that the club does not own the capital assets of the stadium and the training ground.  All they will get is membership of the EFL, along with an assorted group of players and rather grumpy fans.

As football finance guru Kieran Maguire has pointed out, not only does the club face these challenges along with big operating losses, it is also located in an unfashionable part of London (although suddenly my old haunt of Plumstead Common seems to be going up in the world).

Jones hails arrival of Kiwi international

Smiling supremo Nathan Jones has hailed the ninth signing of the window, New Zealand international Tyler Bindon from Nottingham Forest.  He took part in all three of New Zealand's world cup games.  A right footer, he can play at right back as well as centre back.

“We have done very well to get him,” Nathan Jones told South London Sport: Charlton Athletic Edition. “He improves the squad significantly. He is probably somebody we couldn’t have afforded to buy.  He has really good experience. He is a player I’ve known from when he was at Reading. He’s an international and did well at Sheffield United in the second half of last season.”

“I’ve known him for a long, long time. He is someone I like and admire. When we had the opportunity to speak to him and he agreed on Thursday night, we’re really delighted to be able to do that.

“He is very composed and assured in everything he does, in and out of possession. He is not crash-bang. Technically he is very good and wins his duels. He has an air about him, he is someone that we feel really adds to us.”

Charlton go top

Charlton went top of the Championship after a 1-0 win over Preston North End, Karlan Grant scoring after 56 minutes.

It was the prodigal's first goal since returning and it came in front of the Covered End.

They are the only team with a 100 per cent record, Millwall losing 5-1 at Southampton.

It was a clean sheet for Arthur Okonkwo. The home side took the lead after the break when Karlan Grant finished tidily after making a yard for himself in the area.

Preston, battered 4-0 at home by Everton in the Carabao Cup in midweek, looked for a way back into it but could not force Addicks keeper Arthur Okonkwo into a save of note.

Grant gave the home side the lead with his first goal for the club since leaving for Huddersfield in January 2019 as Millenic Alli's cross came to him in the area.

Alli had a chance to wrap it up late on but was denied by a good save from Preston keeper Daniel Iversen. in his home debut.

It was a bit of a hard grind, but better second half.  Fans rated Leaburn's contribution.   Supremo Nathan Jones said: “Miles Leaburn was outstanding. He led the line against three big centre-halves and had zero protection from the referee. At time it looked like Aussie Rules out there. It was his best game for us. “He was exhausted and had a cut eye when he came off - that’s what I want to see from my centre-forward.”

Nathan Jones has credited his coaching staff for the half-time change which helped lead to the winning goal.   Carey was replaced by Alli.

Preston's assistant supremo McCall was booked.  Fan: 'That's just for your haircut.'

It was the first time Paul Heckingbottom had lost to a Nathan Jones team after four encounters.  The under pressure Preston supremo said it had gone wrong in both boxes for them.  Attributing unusual powers to the Addicks, he said that Charlton were willing the ball into the net.  They had smelt the chance to score.

The chances of Heckingbottom falling to the curse of Charlton are reduced by takeover talk at Preston.

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: 'I have to admit that Jones rides his luck, but there are 43 games to go and nine points won't save you from relegation.  Charlton started well last season, but they face a real challenge away at the Baggies on Wednesday.'

 

Jones searching for three more signings

Charlton have been linked with a loan move for Nottingham Forest defender Tyler Bindon.  The cultured 21-year old Kiwi has had difficulty in finding a first team place at Forest.  He was on loan at Sheffield United and reports from there indicate that he has potential yet to be fully realised.

“We’re probably looking to do about three, we think,” Nathan Jones told Richard Cawley, when quizzed on the amount of business still to be done. “The one position we still looked at (right wing) but we might also need to do some wheeling and dealing, to bring in cover.”

“What we don’t want to do is to be in a position we were last season in a certain area (being short). This week has been very, very difficult for one position that we are left exposed like that.”

Striker Daniel Kanu is hoping to make a loan move to Notts County. [It seems to me that this is hbis level, a great striker there but not up to Championship standard - WG]. Cawley reported earlier this week on South London Sport that club captain Greg Docherty is also the subject of interest.

Jones has indicated that Charlton are unlikely to make a goalkeeper loan signing despite Will Mannion being out with a shoulder problem.   He had praise for Tiernan Brooks, although admitting he was partially at fault for conceding the goal against Spurs.   [As someone who watches non-league it's a big transition from there to playing a Premier League side at their stadium.  WG]

The worried Welshman has no illusions about this afternoon’s fixture: “It’s a very, very difficult game. We’ll be going all out to win it, regardless of whether it is the first, second or third win of the season. I don’t think that adds pressure. It is a stat that we’d like, but purely for the fact it gives us another three points.”

Record against Preston is poor

Should Charlton win tomorrow, it will be only the second time since 1992/3 (the start of modern football) that they have won their three opening matches.

Our record against Preston North End is far from good.  They have won each of their last six games against Charlton, their longest winning run against any current Championship side.

The Addicks have lost five of their last seven home games against Preston (W 1, D 1), failing to score in four of these matches.

As the CAS Trust preview points out, any team with no points is likely to be in fighting mode: https://www.castrust.org/2026/08/life-at-the-north-end-of-the-championship/

I wouldn't read too much into Preston's 0-4 defeat at home by Everton in the Carabao Cup, any more than I would see Charlton's defeat by Spurs as significant, other than for the injuries.   Preston made seven changes, although it's worth noting they were susceptible to balls played in behind their defence.

Four Four Two forecast a 17th place finish for Preston, while the selected fan plucked for 14th, 'our spiritual home in the second tier.' A deal for Saudi businessman Amr Zadir to take over appears to have stalled.

Fans have a mixed view of supremo Paul Heckingbottom who 'will need a strong start to quieten the doubters.'   If he left 'he should be replaced by someone who won't play back three.'

Referee Tom Reeves is local to me in Warwickshire.  His first Championship game was Charlton v. Sheffield Wednesday in 2025.  He is known for his reluctance to give red cards and uses yellows as little as he can.

Some fans have argued that spending £4m on Rak-Sakyi would not have been a good use of money when two or three journeymen could be picked up for the same sum.

However, the potential signing did attract the attention of the New York Times.  After being barely mentioned at all, Charlton were featured twice in one week.   Why does this matter?  New York is the financial capital of the US and any billionaire or private equity company looking for a soccer franchise is likely to have his staff keep an eye on the NYT.

Good luck to my eldest granddaughter's partner may his debut in goal today for Abingdon Town (founded 1870) against Shipston Excelsior.

Wine recommendations

Lord Young of Acton drinks a £80 bottle of wine if QPR win, but sometimes settles for a £40 bottle of plonk.  No need to spend that money.   Lidl have a white from the south of France at £7, great with sea food, Le Rocher de Saint Victor, Picpoul de Ponet.   Shame about our quarrels with Argentina as their Malbecs from the Andes foothills are superb value, Tesco has one from Mendoza at £9.50.

Farewell, then, Thomas Kaminski

Charlton Athletic goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski is poised to seal a move to Cypriot side Omonia Nicosia reports Richard Cawley.

Kaminski’s preference has remained to join Omonia Nicosia, who are managed by former Manchester United and Blackburn defender Henning Berg.

They are one of the country’s leading clubs, with 22 league titles and won 4-2 in the second leg of their Europa League play-off tie against Sint-Truiden this evening to progress in the competition. The domestic season in Cyprus starts for Omonia Nicosia on Monday.

Tiernan Brooks started Wednesday night’s 5-1 defeat at Tottenham. It was a testing baptism for the former Gateshead stopper. He faced 11 shots with an xGOT (expected goals on target) of 2.43 - Mikey Moore’s opener squeezing between his hands.

Brooks made six saves, most notably low to his left to keep out Archie Gray’s goalbound strike.

Rak-Sakyi deal is off

After last night's injuries, Charlton were dealt a heavy blow with the news that the deal to sign Jesurrun Rak-Sakyi is off.  He was at Sparrows Lane earlier in the week, but the deal has been pulled because of an ongoing dispute about agent representation.

Charlton hope to sign another right winger before the deadline, but he is unlikely to be of the same calibre. Meanwhile, the gaps at centre back need to be filled.

Charlton 'B go down at the Lane

Two goals in four minutes towards the end of the first half put Roberto de Zerbi's side in control against their Championship opponents at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs had though struggled to make an impact against a much-changed Charlton side before Mikey Moore broke the deadlock in the 41st-minute.

Moore struck from the edge of the box with a rasping drive into the top corner, the 19-year-old's first goal in a Spurs shirt since January 2025.  England forward Dominic Solanke added the second with a right-foot finish in the 45th minute after turning inside the box.

De Zerbi made five changes to the side that lost at the weekend with Portugal midfielder Mateus Fernandes making his first start since completing an £85m move from West Ham.

Substitute Kevin Danso made it 3-0 when he headed Fernandes' free-kick home from 15 yards in the 67th-minute, but the Austria defender had to go off for treatment after being hurt while scoring.

The Addicks, who were cheered on by 6,000 travelling fans, made 10 changes to the side that started the win at West Ham last weekend.   They were forced into two early changes because of injuries to defenders Collins Sichenje and Billy Koumetio, but had the two best chances before Moore put Spurs ahead.

Sichenje damaged his left knee early doors. Initially he carried on after requiring treatment but did not last long. Koumetio, impressive since his transfer from Dundee this summer, had a hamstring issue. They were replaced by Lloyd Jones and Danny McNamara.   It looks as if the injuries will be weeks rather than days.

After skipper Greg Docherty forced Antonin Kinsky into a decent save, Nathan Asiimwe had a header that dropped narrowly wide.

They did give the travelling fans something to cheer about when Lloyd Jones scored an 87th-minute consolation.

Shell shocked supremo Nathan Jones told Richard Cawley: “It is a pretty disastrous night for us,” said Addicks boss Jones. “Not the result, or going out of the cup, but the injuries we picked up. To lose three centre-halves, we lost Reece Burke the other day, that is the difficult thing.

“When you come up against Premier League sides now they are difficult animals, physically strong and how they play. It is very difficult to create an upset. What we have to do is concentrate on the Championship - but that’s really caused us an issue now."

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: 'As I forecast, Jones has been found out and given a thumping, plus injuries to key players.   At least he had the honesty to admit his mistakes, but there was no follow up in terms of a resignation letter on the chairman's desk.'

 

NYT: Rak-Sakyi in for £4m

The soccer ball coverage by the New York Times is suddenly taking an interest in Charlton.

They report: Crystal Palace forward Jesurun Rak-Sakyi is close to joining Charlton Athletic.  A deal worth in excess of £4 million for the 23-year-old to return to the Valley is expected to be completed.

Rak-Sakyi spent the 2022-23 season on loan at Charlton during their League One campaign, winning their player of the year award after scoring 15 times in 49 appearances across all competitions.

He was then kept at Palace the following season playing just eight times, being denied the opportunity for a temporary move away, before playing 36 times for Sheffield United in the Championship in 2024-25, scoring seven times.

Last summer The Athletic reported that Scottish side Rangers had made an offer to loan Rak-Sakyi with a potential obligation buy worth up to £10m rejected by Palace, who sought a fee closer to the £20m Ipswich Town paid Chelsea for Omari Hutchinson.

He eventually was loaned to Caykur Rizespor in Turkey last season where he played 13 times and scored four goals before moving to Stoke City in January and playing a further 16 games.

Rak-Sakyi, who has been capped by England at Under-20 and Under-21 level, has failed to make an impression sufficient to force his way into the Palace squad and he was not in Palace’s plans this season with a year remaining on a five-year contract he signed in 2022.'

£5m had been quoted as a price, so clearly a better deal has been secured.  It will be difficult for moaners to complain that the owners have stinted the manager in this transfer window.

Tottering Hotspur? Il campo parla

One of my favourite trips to the old White Hart Lane was when we won 1-0, Spurs fan Chris Powell scoring the goal.

My stepdaughter has undertaken some of the design work for the new stadium.  Although she is more used to working on venues such as airports, she says she has never seen such a high standard of finish.

Building the new stadium, surely the finest in the country, distracted the club from the pitch leading to Spurs only just avoiding relegation last year.   Much the same happened at Arsenal with the move to the Emirates.

Now a change in leadership has seen more investment in the team.  However, it doesn't seem to have paid off at Brentford on Saturday, although there are still signings to come.

The Sunday Times reported: 'Spurs looked worryingly reminiscent of that side that buckled under the first sign of pressure last season.  Brentford pulverised Tottenham from start to finish.   De Zerbi was a little ball of frustration on the side.'

His watchword is 'Il campo parla', the pitch speaks.   Haringey's finest will want to show what they can do on Wednesday.   Charlton could well get thumped, but the more important match is against Preston North End on Saturday.

A defeat will give the pessimists and negativists their first chance this season, but the result will be no reflection of the calibre of the management or the team.

Tyreece Campbell has signed a new four year contract with the club.

One way ticket to Falmer on Ezenwata's journey

Richard Cawley reports, ‘we know it is a familiar tale that top academy products are lured away before they sign professional terms. Chetam Ezenwata is the latest one.

The 16-year-old defender, touted for a big future in the game, announced on his social media that he has joined Brighton. The Seagulls also landed goalkeeper James Beadle from the Addicks in January 2022.

Ezenwata won the 2026 Steve Clarke Trophy at Charlton, which recognises outstanding progress at U16 level.

“After five unforgettable years with this great club, it’s now time for me to open the next chapter of my story,” said the teenager on his Instagram. “To all my coaches, the staff, my amazing team-mates - with whom I have formed some unbreakable bonds over the years - and all the parents and fans that cheered us on through every win and loss, I say thank you all immensely for being a part of my journey.”’

 

NYT praises soccer ball threat Campbell

Keith Jones scored the winning goal in a 1-0 win at The Valley over Liverpool.   Luke 'Warm' Young found the net in a 2-0 win.

When Charlton were in the Premier League and we beat, for example, Liverpool all the resultant media coverage was on the lines of 'what has gone wrong at Liverpool?'

I predicted the same would happen with Saturday's victory against Wet Spam and so it has.  For example, The Times has a page feature on the club's woes.

Rather unusually The New York Times had a match report on a Championship game that did not involve Wrexham, but you would have had difficulty working out that Charlton were on the pitch.

However, there was one interesting paragraph: 'Tyreece Campbell initiated most of Charlton’s attack down the left flank. The winger subjected full-back Kyle Walker-Peters to a tough afternoon with his pace and unpredictability in possession. His performance was a reminder that West Ham do not have a player that offers a similar threat.'

Yet the armchair managers were telling us last year that he was useless and he was a scapegoat player for many fans.  Their response is that he has undergone a metamorphosis.  

AI avatar Desmond from Deal imploded after Saturday's game, but is now forecasting that Charlton will get their just deserts at Spurs.   No doubt they will want to offset their dubbing by mighty Brentford.

Unconfirmed reports are appearing on social media that Charlton have agreed to sign Jesurun Rak-Sakyi from Crystal Palace for £5.  There is no authoritative confirmation of these reports.

Victory north of the river

What is wrong with Wesr Ham?' will be the media story tomorrow, but Charlton fans will be celebrating an unexpected 2-1 win at the London Stadkum.

It was a case of deja vu when Charlton's goals were scored first by captain Lloyd Jones on seven minutes and then by Tyreece Campbell.

An underwhelming home side pulled one back on 74 minutes.  They then had a chance to equalise when Conor Coventry hand balled in the box, but hit the post from the penalty spot.

Charlton are 2nd in the table behind the Spanners on goal difference.

I featured Charlton fan and author Charlie Connelley yesterday and today is his 56th birthday.

Lloyd Jones opened the scoring with an early overhead kick after the hosts allowed Sonny Carey's long throw-in to bounce inside their penalty area.

Seven days after securing Charlton's win over the Rams, man of the matchTyreece Campbell was in clinical form again to dispossess the dithering Konstantinos Mavropanos, enter the box and curl in shortly after the break to double the lead in front of a sell-out crowd of 62,500, including more than 3,000 gleeful Addickted.

West Ham’s coach Nuno Espirito Santo was unimpressed to see Miles Leaburn gifted the ball for a run that ended with the forward sending a fierce shot wide, summing up a first half in which Charlton proved considerably more dangerous than their opponents in the first league edition of this fixture since 2007.

Despite their lack of cutting edge, West Ham could have levelled seconds before the interval when Castellanos had a glorious chance to take his tally to four goals in his past five home league games, only to plant a header straight at Arthur Okonkwo when Ollie Scarles' curling cross found the forward unmarked in front of goal.

Nuno sent on Lewis Orford for Mohamadou Kante in midfield for the second half, which his side began by applying ample pressure before more sloppiness afforded Campbell a chance the Jamaica international took to double Charlton's lead.

Making his Charlton bow, Okonkwo brilliantly tipped Divine Mukasa's drive away as part of an inspired display against an attack featuring new West Ham signing Arne Engels, as well as home debutant Manor Solomon.

Piroe, having seen a goal ruled out after the ball had gone out of play before his finish, pulled one back to give the hosts hope.

The lively Jarrod Bowen created further opportunities and Castellanos skimmed a header narrowly wide as Nuno's players pushed to replicate Burnley's comeback against them at Turf Moor.

Castellanos looked poised to complete the comeback in last-gasp fashion, but his miss ensured the celebrations and relief belonged to Charlton after a gritty, incisive display that ensured they joined Millwall as the only teams to have won both of their first two Championship matches.

London clubs

Charlton fan Charlie Connelley brought out a book called London Fields about football in London.  A lot of it was about non-league clubs and even the Sunday games on Hackney marshes, but he did find time to discuss a then projected move of Charlton to the Millennium dome.

I can't find my copy of the book, but it may still be in store after my house move in November.  Boxes of books are located behind the furniture going to my granddaughter's new home in Swansea.

Alternatively, it may be in Spain. My middle daughter was a friend of Charlie's at uni and if I take one of his books to her Spanish farm, it is usually appropriated.

Charlie lived in Deal for many years, but then relocated to Scotland where he is said to be 'missing Charlton Athletic terribly.'   His account on X has been dormant since 2024 and there have been no new books so I hope he is ok.

Anyway the real point here is what does one think of other London clubs.    I rather like Brentford as they have pulled themselves up by their boot straps.   A good friend of mine has lived in the same house in Acton all his life and has always been a supporter (thankfully not QPR).

If the 'Woolwich Rejects' had not moved north of the river there might not be a Charlton.  My stepdaughter is a fan and her husband has a season ticket.

And what about West Ham?  My father was born in North Woolwich and played his non-league football on that side of the river.  He was actually at the famous first cup final at Wembley.

An often forgotten phase in Charlton history is when we played there while waiting for The Valley to be finished.  We were much better treated there than at Selhurst Park.

Moreover, West Ham dislike Millwall (and are anticipating the 'Dockers' Derby).

That doesn't, of course, mean that we don't want to beat them tomorrow.

CAS Trust looks forward to both of the London derbies and notes the comment made by Nathan Jones that it will be a tough week that will stretch Charlton: https://www.castrust.org/2026/08/west-ham-a-warm-up-for-tottenham/

AI avatar Desmond from Deal says that thumpings in the two local derbies may finally convince his few fans that Jones has to go.

FT slates scourge of Charlton

Lord Young of Acton is associate editor of the Spectator.   The late Rod Liddle spearheaded the magazine's campaign against the 'Charltification' of football.   Lord Young ('Tobes') is a keen Super Hoop and often complains about QPR in his column which must baffle the average Speccie reader.  In her tribute to Liddle, former employee Kemi Badenoch called it the Sextator.

Editor Lord Gove knows little about football and less about Charlton so he may well drop the campaign.  Liddle was a talented wordsmith and, as a Millwall supporter, had been attacking Charlton for years in both the Sunday Times and the Spectator.  

However, the 'Charltificatuon' article escalated matters to a new level.  Before then Liddle had mainly resorted to rather tired memes about anoraks and train spotters.  I was baffled by the notion that Charlton was a 'woke' club and was somehow leading other clubs along the wrong path.  Our moaners often say that Charlton are a laughing stock, but the reality is that most fans have hardly ever heard of us.  For example, my chiropodist is a keen football fan (Villa) but doesn't even know which division we are in.  The idea that top clubs are taking cues from us is laughable.

As far as Lord Young is concerned, one question is whether he will renew his unrequited feud with fanzine editor Rick Everitt.   After his failure last year to stage a confrontation with the Rickster on Margate beach last autumn, there was speculation that he might go to the Thanet council offices with a loud hailer and urge Everitt to 'man up' and 'come outside'.  The confrontation between the two folically challenged supporters could then be filmed by fellow QPR fan Louis Theroux.   However, Everitt might well decide to stay in his Ramsgate lair.

I have messaged the noble lord to ask about his intentions, particularly when comes to The Valley, but he has not replied.

Things have been a little tricky for Lord Young recently (he is the son of Lord Young of Dartington, but it is a life peerage).  First, he received several mentions in the Epstein files and for a while it looked as if the new UK Government might respond to calls for the British links of Epstein to be investigated.*

Now the Financial Times has launched an investigation into Young's Free Speech Union which was the vehicle he used to attack 'town hall tyrant' Everitt.   Critics argue that the FSU is interested in free speech for those who agree with its values.

The FT has been investigating in depth Young's links with the Trump administration in the US and the MAGA movement more generally.   The FSU's international umbrella organisation is due to receive $5m from the US State Department.

About seven FSU employees, equivalent to a quarter of the workforce, have resigned or been sacked in the last year, including the chief legal counsel.   One former employee told the FT, 'There's a sharp, sinister edge to the FSU today.   Previously they'd go to bat for, and were, the underdogs.  Now they are the classroom bullies.'  I doubt whether Everitt would succumb to bullying, particularly from a Super Hoop.

* Lord Young has made clear that he was inadvertently included in Epstein's contacts list as a result of a tenuous acquaintance with G Maxwell.   Lord Young has emphatically denied that he ever visited 'Paedo Islamd' (his terminology); traveled on the plane known as the Lolita Express; or met Epstein either at one of his homes or at an incarceration facility.   It is not implied that Lord Young has ever met or communicated with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor..

Rak Sakyi: nothing to see here?

Hopeful fans have been posting photos of cars claimed to belong to Jesrun Rak-Sakyi seen in the vicinity of The Valley.  The former Player of the Year has played more first team games for Charlton than for any other club.

Nathan Jones has confirmed he is an admirer of the Crystal Palace winger but has declined to discuss whether a move for the former Charlton Athletic loan star could be in the offing.

Addicks fans have long held out hope that the attacker could make a return to SE7 after a stellar stay in the 2022-23 League One season. Rak-Sakyi scored 15 goals and collected nine assists.

Rak-Sakyi is in the final year of his Palace contract and the indications are that the SE25-based club are ready to listen to offers.

Nathan Jones said at a press conference “There is nothing to say at this point. We do like him but he is a Palace player. Until that changes, it would be very, very wrong of me to comment on anything.”

Richard Cawley at South  London Sport has heard that Palace chairman Steve Parish wants a deal worth £5million for Rak-Sakyi. That would be more than any of Charlton’s transfer deals since they won promotion back to the Championship.

Asked about that figure looking like a big investment, Jones replied: “Well, yeah, it would be a very, very big investment for us. For others, as we’ve seen, it is a normal or a mid investment. For us it would be a very big one.”

I think this is a signing is more than Charlton can afford, welcome though it would be.

 

Are West Ham invincible?

AI avatar Desmond from Deal had to take his time to put together a pessimistic take on Saturday's win against Derby, but here it is: 'Jones often rides his luck, particularly in the first match of the season, but a thumping at West Ham on Sunday will bring him and the fans down to earth.'

But is defeat inevitable?   The New York Times generally focuses its Championship coverage on praising Wrexham, but here is what its soccer ball coverage has to say about the Hammers:

'Before a ball was kicked against Burnley on Sunday, there was a misplaced arrogance from some that West Ham United would walk the 2026-27 Championship. Instead, they received a much-needed reality check in their season opener.

Following relegation from the Premier League last season, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are understandably considered promotion favourites. But they squandered a two-goal lead at Turf Moor, were taunted by the home supporters and ended up with a 2-2 draw that has created more angst than optimism. It was a game that highlighted West Ham’s lack of squad depth, with Nuno unable to influence the game with offensive substitutions.

West Ham are depleted of attacking options with untested academy prospects Joshua Ajala and Josh Landers the only recognisable forward options on the bench. Despite the imminent arrival of Arne Engels this squad is still not equipped to cope with the rigours of a 46-game schedule in the second tier.

Other glaring issues include Nuno being prone to a drab approach when his side is in front. Last season West Ham dropped 20 points from winning positions, and retreating further into their half for large spells of the second half on Sunday cost them again.

“Disappointing,” said Nuno in his post-match press conference when asked for his thoughts on the performance. “We did a very good first half. We created a lot of chances and we were able to control and stop Burnley but not so good in the second half. After we scored the second goal, I think we should have done better to get the result. Many things (frustrated me about the performance in the second half), many things that we have to improve for the next one (a London derby against Charlton Athletic on Saturday).

“But we need more (bodies), especially in the offensive part of the team. We have young lads, we have options in both full-back positions like in the last game, but we need more bodies in the offensive part of the team. The club knows the targets and the needs of the team. We’re working very hard and trying to get the bodies in as soon as possible.”'

Will Okonkwo join Charlton?

It looks as if flamboyant Wrexham keeper Arthur Okonkwo is firmly out of favour with Phil Parkinson at Wrexham.   However, unconfirmed reports suggest that Bolton and Derby as well as Charlton are interested in a one year loan deal (now completed).

The Addicks have been linked with a move for amid doubts over the future of Thomas Kaminski.  However, there have been no recent updates on a possible deal with Sparta Rottedam.

Addicks manager Nathan Jones did not include Kaminski in his matchday squad for Saturday’s 2-1 win over Derby County on the opening day of the Championship season.

Richard Cawley has consulted a Wrexham expert who has stated, 'The potential of the guy is off the charts but he can’t seem to put it all together.  He has got the same sort of failings of a lot of young goalkeepers. He doesn’t really know when to come off his line, there is no communication and he’s very bad with his feet.

I think you might have a Premier League keeper on your hands. He is still developing. I feel like he needs that arm around him, which he isn’t going to get at Wrexham.'

An Arsenal academy graduate, the Camden born Okonkwo has joined the Nigerian international squad and has made his first appearance with them.

'Unbelievable sound' scoring in front of the Covered End

Lloyd Jones has been talking to Richard Cawley.  Here are a few excerpts as a taster.

Referring to Saturday: “That’s my first goal in front of the Covered End,” said Jones. “The sound was unbelievable. It’s addictive.

“The most important thing was the three points. I would’ve liked a clean sheet but to come from behind, especially in the first Championship game, and get three points is a great feeling.

“The Championship may be a little bit stronger this year. We’ve got to keep building. We had our targets set last week. If we can improve our points tally, goal difference and scoring - we got two today - it will stand us in good stead.”

Plenty of pundits have tipped Charlton to struggle this season. [The bookies have us as favoujrites to go down].So does he pay attention to those comments?

“No - stuff them,” said Jones. “It’s good to be underdogs sometimes, you haven’t got as much pressure going into games. It’s outside noise. We’re a confident bunch. There will be some tough times as well as good ones, it’s just how quickly we can recover from that.”

Lord Young of Acton has been celebrating the Super Hoops win at Portsmouth.   I have messaged 'Tobes' to warn him that Charlton will be more difficult and asking him if he plans to reignite his feud with Rick Everitt.  No reply yet.

No Ram raid today

A second half comeback saw Charlton defeat Derby 2-1 at The Valley this afternoon.   Derby went ahead in the first half.

Lloyd Jones scored with a pinpoint header, making use of a well placed free kick by prodigal Karlan Grant.

Then Tyreece Campbell scored a rare goal to deliver the winner on 80 minutes.

Carlton Morris made a last minute effort for an equaliser and had a penalty appeal turned down.

The Addicks made a rapid start to the game but rarely threatened to go ahead before Szmodics scored following neat interplay with Morris, soon after going close with another strike.

The outstanding Campbell was at the heart of Charlton's best moments, sending in several dangerous crosses, notably when Rams defender Charlie Taylor made a brilliant block to stop Dan McNamara's fierce half-volley.

With pressure increasing on the resumption, Timothy Ouma headed wide when unmarked at a corner but Jones was not so wasteful as he powered the ball in from an exquisite Karlan Grant cross.

Campbell was the appropriate match winner and Charlton survived a late rally by the Rams, in which Oscar Fraulo forced a fine save from Will Mannion, who also denied Morris in injury time.

Nathan Jones told Richard Cawley that Charlton are in "really advanced negotiations" with Tyreece Campbell over a new contract.   And he wants to stay (not all fans will welcome this unfortunately).

Jones had only an opaque explanation of why Mannion was preferred over Kaminski.  Jones has never ruled out a move for him.  It is understood that the Belgian player's family live abroad.  A Cyprus club came in for him early in the transfer window.

Wines to drink if we win

Unfortunately I haven't been able to identify any good buys from Aldi or Lidl today, but I have spotted a New World Wine.  I am a great fan of them and have enjoyed visits to vineyards in Chile and various parts of Australia (Margaret River is tops).

I am also able to recommend a Sauvignon Blanc and there is an anecdote.  Annie was a friend at uni, later a work colleague and then a retirement pal in the Royal Spa.   She is no longer with us, but always drank Sauvignon Blanc.

Coffee with Annie

She had a pan in Spain and I used to drive her to and from Birmingham Airport.  Sometimes she had an upper class friend from Cambridge with her and this lady always festooned with her luggage on arrival and addressed me as 'Driver'.  Hence, 'Driver, take us to Tesco at Warwick and buy us two bottles of SB.'

Once I was at a funeral at Golders Green crematorium for a big funeral conducted by Dame Julia Neuberger.  I was not pleased to be identified as Annie's driver by the upper class lady who was accompanied by another upper class airhead.

'You can drive us to the wake.'  I explained that I used public transport in London.  So I had to take them on the tube which fortunately they found a very exciting novelty.   I was also able to give them an architectural tour en route to the pub.  I did leave before they did as I knew I would be required to provide a black cab to the Cambridge train.

Anyway, I am great fan of the SBs from Marlborough in New Zealand.  They are great value at £12, but the Co-op has an Irresistible Explorers at £8.25.  All right, I know that in my day we all called the RACS Rob All Customers Slowly.

Marks & Spencers has a Sicilian wine at £7.50, Found Arisonica which is a citrussy white with a firm finish.