Charlton finally completed the signing of Wigan central defender, Jason Pearce, on Thursday.

Pearce is 28-years-old and has made 346 league appearances for Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Leeds and Wigan, scoring 15 goals.

The Hillingdon born defender has skippered all four clubs, and is a natural leader, a quality admired by Russell Slade who had this to say about his new recruit:

“Jason certainly knows what it takes to get out of this league. He’s an absolute warrior, a leader, winner and will be an example on the pitch to all of his teammates and our younger players as well.

“It’s took some time to get it done but he was a target that was an exceptionally good fit for us and we are delighted to get him,” said the boss.

Pearce was full of enthusiasm and said:

“I’m delighted. It’s been a long time coming. I’ve known about the club’s interest for a while now and I’m glad to finally get it signed and be a Charlton player.

“When I spoke to the manager, he really wanted me to be part of his team that will be trying to get straight back up into the Championship, and I’m really happy that I am.”

Pearce is likely to go straight into the team at Bury, and will form a resolute central defensive partnership with Roger Johnson.

Slade hinted that there could be another arrival before Saturday:

“We are two-thirds of the way down the road with another one. I would be hopeful that we could get him for the weekend but time is running out,” said Slade.

Slade added that there was speculation surrounding Callum Harriott and Jorge Teixeira. A number of Championship clubs have shown an interest in Harriott, and a deal for the winger to exit The Valley could be close.