Anfernee Dijksteel’s move to Middlesbrough was announced on Wednesday. The fee is thought to be in the region of £2m.

Though excited‎ about the move, Dijksteel thanked Charlton and their fans:

“I want to thank all current and former staff at Charlton Athletic, as they have helped me develop into the player I am today. 

“I would also like to say a massive and sincere thank you to the fans of Charlton Athletic. Thanks for your support, for travelling with the team all over the country. You will always have a special place in my heart.”

‎Lee Bowyer explained that Dijksteel was allowed to go for footballing reasons:

“Letting Anfernee go was a decision made by the footballing staff, it was a tough decision for us but it is a good deal for the club. 

“Our focus remains on bringing in players that improve us ahead of the transfer deadline on Thursday.

“We wish Anfernee the best, except when he plays against us of course,” said Bowyer.

Dijksteel’s departure was more than compensated for by the arrival of Josh Cullen a few hours later.

Cullen returns to The Valley on a season long loan, though West Ham can exercise a recall clause in the contract between 1-15 January. 

But given the strength of the Hammers’ midfield, the East Enders are unlikely to invoke the clause unless they suffer an injury crisis.

It is a move Bowyer thought was unlikely to happen:

“I’m delighted, I didn’t think Josh was a possibility. I’m pleased to have someone with Josh’s ability, we saw how much he improved last year and what he brought to our team. 

“We know he will give us 100 per cent every time he trains and plays, he’s a great lad all around,” said Bowyer.

Head of Recruitment, Steve Gallen, explained the mechanics of the deal:

“I’m so happy about this signing. We’ve not let this go all summer. 

“I’ve been chipping away at this every single day to make this happen. 

“There have been days and weeks where you think it is definitely not happening but when we found out yesterday there was a slim chance, we were on it in a flash.”

Cullen knows that a tough season awaits but is looking forward to the challenge:

“I’m looking forward to putting the shirt back on again and playing at The Valley and improving as a player. 

“I think we’re expecting a tough season, it’s a step up from where we were last season but it is one that we will relish and obviously the lads got off to a brilliant start on Saturday.”

Cullen will retain the number 24 shirt he wore last season. He is in the last year of his contract at the London Stadium and will become a free agent next summer.

Lyle Taylor seems set to stay at The Valley, and he could be joined by a number of new teammates today.

Taylor would welcome a new strike partner, and it is an area where the Addicks are looking to strengthen.

Preston’s much travelled Louis Moult is one possibility.