Charlton Athletic star issues 20-word apology after late red card in Northampton Town loss

Charlton Athletic midfielder Tayo Edun has taken to social media to apologise to supporters for seeing red with just four minutes left on the clock against Northampton Town at The Valley on Tuesday night.

It had been a feisty affair between the two League One sides with a flurry of goals before half-time leaving the score at 2-2 during the break. There was little to separate the two sides in the second half until Edun lost control while dribbling and landed a hefty challenge on Aaron McGowan.

The 25-year-old received his second yellow card of the match and was given his marching orders, despite his clear disbelief and protestations. The visitors then netted a winner in the 97th minute through Louis Appere, which ultimately sounded the death knell for head coach Michael Appleton who was relieved shortly after the final whistle.

While the fallout from the game centres around Appleton's dismissal and who will take the job to put an end to Charlton's poor run of form, which has left the club winless since November, Edun issued a heartfelt message to fans online. Taking to X, he wrote: "I want to apologise to you guys for the sending off, very frustrating although I don’t agree with the decision."

It was Edun's fourth red card of his career to date, all of which came after picking up two yellows. He will miss the Addicks' visit to Blackpool this weekend. He added: "We’ll all continue to fight and compete for the rest of the season, stick with us."

Charlton now look to appoint their sixth boss in less than three years, with supporters hoping for a period of stability at The Valley after a turbulent campaign. The club sits 16th in League One, four points off the drop zone and 19 points off the play-offs.

A statement from the club last night read: "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."