Both Paul Elliott and Chris Farnell failed to meet the EFL’s criteria to own a football club.

The EFL issued this statement on Friday:

“At its meeting earlier this week, the EFL board was asked to consider Owners’ and Directors’ Test (OADT) applications lodged by Charlton Athletic in respect of a number of different individuals,” said the EFL on Friday.

“Following a full and comprehensive appraisal of all the relevant matters the board determined that three individuals were subject to a disqualifying condition and the EFL declined to approve their applications. Those individuals have 14 days to appeal the decision.

“The EFL continues to consider applications from other individuals under the OADT.”‎

The Charlton fans who “visited” Farnell in his Hale ‎office on Friday may have been surprised to find former Wolves and Southamton manager, Dave Jones, there.

Richard Cawley has reported that 63-year-old Jones could head up football‎ operations at the club.

The job would put him in a senior position to both Lee Bowyer and Steve Gallen, and would appear to make Gallen’s job untenable. 

Jones would be in charge of recruitment, though Bowyer may have a “final say” clause in his contract.

Already, conflict appears to be simmering just below the surface. The Addicks are trying to get EFL approval to sign Conor Washington and Alex Gilbey, but Cawley reports that Jones is not keen on the pair.

Farnell appears to be making the decisions, even though he failed the EFL test and is not registered as a director of ESI at Companies House.

To further complicate matters, minority shareholder, Matt Southall, is trying to oust Farnell and Elliott.

If Jones does pitch up in SE7, it would be no surprise to see Gallen leave the club. Bowyer’s future would also be in doubt, if he lost his Director of Football.

‎With the new season little more than four weeks away, the club is in complete disarray.

The situation needs resolving quickly. These are dark, dark days in SE7.