Academy graduate, George Lapslie, followed Dillon Phillips in signing a new contract on Tuesday. The deal will run until the summer of 2021.
Lapslie is now 21-years-old and has made 13 starts, plus 17 sub appearances for the Addicks in all competitions.
He scored on his debut – a Checkatrade Trophy game at Crawley in August 2017. His other goal also came in a Checkatrade Trophy game, he scored in the record 8-0 win at Stevenage last October.
Charlton’s injury crisis forced Lee Bowyer to give Lapslie his League debut at Sunderland in August.
Lapslie took his chance with both hands, and is now a regular in the match day squad.
Here is what he had to say after penning the deal:
“I’m ecstatic, really. It makes me very proud of myself and what I’ve done.
“I’m sure my family are very proud. I’m going to try and kick on now and really establish myself in the team.”
Lee Bowyer has been a big influence in Lapslie’s development this season, and added these thoughts:
“I’m delighted, he deserves it. He’s been working hard and improved a lot this season. I’m pleased for George. Hopefully he can carry on improving.
“He’s always been a lad that leaves everything out there – I don’t think anyone can deny that – but it’s the in possession stuff he’s improved on a lot and he’s maturing and, obviously, learning. He’s got a good future in front of him.”
Head of Recruitment, Steve Gallen, highlighted how much Lapslie has improved this season:
”I think at the end of last year he wasn’t part of the first team squad to be honest. Lee gave him a chance in the summer, partly because we were a bit short in that position, and he was great in pre-season.
“He’s cemented himself now over the last six months from being someone on the periphery to being a first team squad member in every game.
“Lee’s done well, putting him in there and giving him an opportunity and George has responded brilliantly and really matured as a player. He’s a strong, hard working, honest football player who can play as well.”
Lapslie has been with the club since he was 10. His next target will be to force himself into the starting XI on a regular basis.
When asked, he confirmed that one day he wanted to captain the club:
“It’s definitely a goal (the captaincy). I think everyone here will probably say it is their goal to be the captain and be the leader.
“I’ll just keep working hard, day in and day out. I’ve got to get my spot in the team first.”
