Frustrated Charlton coach confronts 'elephant in room' after Derby defeat

Charlton Athletic interim head coach Curtis Fleming admitted that the club was locked in a relegation battle after defeat to Derby County at The Valley. The Rams won 1-0 as they frustrated an Addicks side that struggled to get going.

Fleming, who is in charge of the side until a new permanent appointment to replace Michael Appleton is made, didn't shirk the suggestion that the team were now in a fight for their status as a League One club, labelling the suggestion as the 'elephant in the room'.

The 55-year-old said: "It's no doubt. It's a big elephant in the room. It's something we have to talk about. I can't keep saying we worked hard and showed endeavour. We have to find a way to win games."

Charlton conceded early in the match against Derby, a goal that was another gift for their opponents following a defensive mix-up at the back. The hosts were better after the break and came close through sub Daniel Kanu but couldn't find the killer touch to take any points from the game.

Fleming said: "To give a goal away, which was self-inflicted... three of the chances they had in the first half came from us. I was disappointed with the goal but liked the way we shook ourselves off and went again."

Former Southampton and Luton Town boss Nathan Jones was at the stadium to watch the action with his appointment as the new Charlton head coach believed to be imminent, although not quite confirmed. The Welshman has been out of work since being sacked by the Saints one-year ago as they struggled in the top flight.

Asked if he had any updates on the situation, Fleming said: "Not really. I know something is going to happen, we all do. Until it's official we've got to keep going. I think he'd see things today he's happy with and things he wants to make a change with. The situation isn't about me, I'm trying to work hard and do my best.

"I think it's a really good appointment that people probably think wouldn't happen. He had a Premier League job as his last job and now to come and coach in League One. He's an honest guy, upbeat, we've played against his teams before. He's able to galvanise teams. There weren't many superstars in the Luton team but they had a togetherness."