Charlton next manager news as Sheffield Wednesday and QPR legends linked

QPR legend Gareth Ainsworth and Sheffield Wednesday hero Nigel Pearson have both been linked with a return to management following the sacking of Michael Appleton by Charlton Athletic earlier this week.

The Addicks head coach, who took over from Dean Holden in September, had endured a torrid festive period and start to 2024 at The Valley with the club winless in 12 games. A 97th-minute defeat to Northampton Town on Tuesday night proved the final blow for the 48-year-old.

A short statement from the club 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."

The club has since confirmed that Curtis Fleming and Jason Pearce will take interim charge of the men's first team while a new manager is appointed. Charlton also relieved Richard O'Donnell of his first-team coach role.

A statement from the board on Wednesday added: "Our search for the club’s next Men’s First-Team Head Coach is underway. Given our current position and the ambition of everyone at the club, it is vital we get the right appointment to lead Charlton forward.

"While appointing a new Head Coach is a key priority, we are also well aware that there is just over a week left in the January transfer window. We have already signed seven players this month and we are still looking to further strengthen the squad before the window closes next week. The transfer activity will be overseen, as it has been throughout January, by the club’s Technical Director Andy Scott.

"We would like to thank you for your continued, passionate support and assure you that everyone at the club is working hard to turn things around on the pitch. Your support will play an important role in helping us finish the season as high up the table as possible."

A number of managerial candidates have been touted as replacements for Appleton, with former Southampton and Luton Town boss Nathan Jones the frontrunner. Jones hasn't worked since being sacked by the Saints almost a year ago but enjoyed success with the Hatters while on a tight budget.

Other names on the list include QPR legend Gareth Ainsworth, who was dismissed by the Rs last October. The former midfielder, who made 151 appearances for the Rs, only managed eight months at Loftus Road and left the club after six consecutive defeats.

Former Bristol City and Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson is another name on the rumoured candidate list. The ex Sheffield Wednesday star left his post at Ashton Gate in October after two and a half years at the club.

Ex Cambridge United boss Mark Bonner is also linked with the job, along with former Swansea City man Michael Duff and Grimsby Town's recently departed Paul Hurst.