CHARLTON Athletic announced the sacking of Michael Appleton following their 3-2 defeat to Northampton Town on Tuesday night – 29 minutes after the full-time whistle at The Valley.
It was the Addicks’ sixth League One defeat in seven games and left them just four points above the relegation zone.
The end for Appleton came in cruel fashion when Louis Appere scored a 97th-minute winner for the Cobblers.
Charlton went into the game without a win in nine and after supporters had called for the sacking of Appleton during the 2-0 defeat at Burton Albion the previous weekend.
The hosts got off to a poor start when Tyreece Simpson went past Rarmani Edmonds-Green before beating goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer in the seventh minute.
Charlton levelled in the 20th minute when Aaron McGowan finished Alfie May’s cross into his own net.
But just two minutes later McGowan set up McGowan Sam Hoskins to make it 2-1.
Tennai Watson scored the home side’s second equaliser three minutes into first-half stoppage-time when he beat Lee Burge after Freddie Ladapo’s initial shot was blocked.
Tayo Edun was sent off with four minutes left after a second booking for two fouls on McGowan.
Appere then scored at the death and the inevitable followed.
On their official website, Charlton released a two-paragraph, 38-word statement, reading: “Charlton Athletic can confirm that Michael Appleton has left the club with immediate effect after being relieved of his role as Head Coach.
“The club would like to thank Michael for his efforts during his time in charge.”
Appleton is the fifth manager Charlton have sacked this decade, with none of them lasting more than 32 games in charge. The club have dispensed with the services of Nigel Adkins (29 games), Johnnie Jackson (27), Ben Garner (29), Dean Holden (32) and Appleton (28).
Charlton didn’t put anyone up to do a post-match press conference, which is usually taken by the manager.
The club haven’t yet confirmed who will be in charge for their League One game at Blackpool this Saturday.
