Thanks Chris

A difficult and surreal day.

Undoubtedly we will hear from Chris in the coming days, I can imagine the clamour from the TV companies to get him on the sofa as we approach the business end of the season, but hopefully he will get some quality time to spend with his family before doubtlessly appearing in the frame for all manner of jobs in the summer.

Chris of course will play down any issues with Roland Duchâtelet, won’t make any damning accusations, will talk fondly of his Charlton memories and will wish the players and supporters well. It’s the way he would like to be remembered.

I have been fortunate to have met Chris on a number of occasions, 10 days together with his family on holiday in Sardinia is one of my most treasured memories.

In fact my Charlton memories within the past two decades are characterised by Chris Powell.

His first game back at Derby in his first Premier league season with us, promotion the year after at Ewood Park, his first game after being named in the England squad at Highfield Road, how proud we felt when he made his England debut, his goal against Spurs, the team he supported as a boy, what we thought was his farewell game against Coventry at The Valley, when he somehow scored, how giddy I was when he was announced as Charlton manager, collecting the League One trophy at home to Hartlepool, swinging on the crossbar at Hillsborough, every victory leap out of the tunnel.

Thanks for the memories Chris. No one can take those away.