NATHAN Jones revealed he turned down a number of approaches from clubs – but waited for the “right opportunity” which he feels Charlton Athletic provide after he was confirmed as the Addicks’ new manager.
Jones, 50, takes on that role – the title changed from Michael Appleton’s ‘head coach’ position – on a long-term deal and will take his first training session on Monday.
Jones will return to the dugout in Charlton’s crucial relegation six-pointer at Reading on Saturday, just under a year after he was sacked by Southampton after only fourteen games in charge.
“I am extremely excited by the challenge in front of me at Charlton. It is a club that I have fond memories of from my time here and I want to play my part in moving the club forward,” Jones said on Charlton’s website.
“I have been approached by a number of clubs to get back into management but I have been waiting for the right opportunity. From my conversations with the board and given the long-term nature of the contract, I can see there is a real appetite to build something here which I am really looking forward to being a part of.”
James Rodwell, chairman of the Charlton board, said: “We’re really pleased to appoint Nathan Jones. He is a manager of real pedigree who has a track record of building successful teams over a period of time.
“We were really impressed with the quality of candidates interested in coming to Charlton. Through our initial research, the in-depth interview process and the references we took, Nathan was the clear stand-out.
“He is a great fit for Charlton given his ability to get his teams playing football on the front foot, with a passion and an intensity. He is an excellent coach, who is tactically savvy and an outstanding developer of talent.
“The ownership group has a long-term focus of bringing success to Charlton Athletic and Nathan will play a key role as we look to take this club to the next level. Initially that will mean improving on our recent form and looking to finish the season as high up the League One table as possible.”
