DANNY McNamara said Charlton Athletic “holds a special place in my heart” after the full-back joined on a free transfer from South London rivals Millwall.
McNamara, 27, who can play on the right or left side of the defence, has signed a two-year deal at The Valley.
Former Republic of Ireland under-21 international McNamara was in the Addicks’ academy until the age of fourteen.
After a spell with non-league Corinthian, he joined the Lions in 2015.
McNamara had loan stints at Welling United, Dover Athletic, Havant & Waterlooville, Newport County and St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership before making his Millwall debut under Gary Rowett in 2021.
McNamara played 166 games for Millwall, scoring twice.
“I’m absolutely delighted to get it done,” McNamara said on Charlton’s website. “I started my career here when I was really young, so it holds a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to get going again.
“I know how big of a club Charlton are. I’ve got a lot of family and friends who are Charlton fans – it’s a great community and I’m delighted to be a part of it.
“As soon as I met the manager, I knew it was the right place for me. The ambitions of the club and what he wants to build is very exciting and I want to be a part of that.”
Boss Nathan Jones added: “We’re really delighted to add Danny to our ranks. He’s someone that’s got massive experience of the Championship and knows what it takes to win games. He adds real competition to the right-back area.
“He’s an impressive individual in that he’s a winner, and he wants to achieve – we need those type of characters here. As a character, as an athlete, as a player we’re delighted to have him with us and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Managing director James Rodwell said: “We’re delighted to welcome Danny to the club. With over 150 Championship appearances, he brings significant experience and proven quality to our squad.
“His addition aligns with our focus on strengthening the team and enhancing the depth and calibre of the group as we continue to progress heading into our second season in the Championship.”
McNamara was involved in an altercation with a Charlton fan at The Valley during the 1-1 draw between the sides last season.
Speaking about the incident to NewsAtDen, McNamara said: “A lot of the lads wanted to go to that game because we hadn’t played Charlton for a while, and the rivalry. Being a Millwall fan I just wanted to be part of it, and it was a good day, wasn’t it?
“They didn’t beat us, which was good. The altercation in the stands after that was just a bit of banter. And it’s just part and parcel, isn’t it?”
