CAFC exodus begins with Manager/Coach position still uncertain

Wed May 14 2014

Expiring contracts in playing and coaching staff have been a topic of serious concern for fans for over a year now

The former incumbent's policy of letting deals run down to the wire, which until recently even affected captain Johnny Jackson, has left the new owner with a number of challenging squad issues to say the least.

The situation also includes all the backroom staff which had included Chris Powell, a situation that continues with his replacement Jose Riga who was only on a deal until the end of the season, despite successfully maintain Charlton's Championship status.

Departures so far include fringe players Hughes, Evina and Green, with Hollands, Pritchard, Gower and others expected to follow. But perhaps more of a concern are Dervite rumoured to be moving to Bolton, and question marks over Wood, Morrison and Hamer, and of course emerging star and Player of the Year Poyet.

Loanee and surprise hattrick hero Sordell is at the end of his season long loan deal, plus any other loan signings will also have expired.

This leaves whomever is at the helm at CAFC with a challenge or opportunity for a widespread squad refresh, and some experience of the Championship and transfer market ups and downs gained from January. Some commentators and bloggers are pointing to the fortunes of Standard Liege (arguably the jewel in the Duchatelet network) in their quest for Champions League football, as a significant factor in the likely transfer activity for Charlton, with Charlton hoping to wrap things up squad wise by June end. Interested fans can follow Liege's fortunes via our Network New section here.

So it's another interesting and no doubt very busy summer for Charlton fans, similar perhaps to Chris Powell's highly successful League 1 promotion squad building effort three years ag0, and all Addicks will we assume be hoping this one is just as successful.

With a new kit and sponsor rumoured, as well as a new pitch and training ground development go ahead, as well as possibly a new Manager and half a squad, it really will be all change at Charlton.