Charlton Athletic axe manager Dean Holden just five games into the new season

CHARLTON ATHLETIC have announced the departure of manager Dean Holden after losing four of their opening five league games.

Holden, 43, who was appointed in December 2022, oversaw a rise from 18^th in League One to tenth in the division by the end of the season.

During his time at the helm, a significant number of Academy graduates established themselves in the Addicks’ first team.

The club have also confirmed the departures of assistant manager Danny Senda and goalkeeping coach Glyn Shimell.

The club have picked up one win from their opening five games in League One this season, losing 2-1 to current leaders Oxford United on Saturday, and are in nineteenth-place in the table.

Charlton Athletic chairman James Rodwell said in a statement: “I would like to thank Dean and his staff for their hard work and dedication and sincerely wish them all the best in their future careers.

"Dean’s work in steering the club clear of relegation last season should not be forgotten, nor his development of many younger players.”

Whilst a thorough recruitment process for a new manager is undertaken, the first team will be overseen on an interim basis by Jason Pearce, who will be assisted by Anthony Hayes.

Charlton Athletic host second-from-bottom side Fleetwood Town at The Valley on Saturday 2 September.

Visit Charlton Athletic’s website: www.charltonafc.com