If the transfer window opened with a bang, it closed with a whimper for Charlton.
The only deadline day signing was Gillingham striker, Josh Parker. Parker signed on a permanent deal, albeit only for six months.
This suggests that the Addicks anticipated bringing in a loanee. It is believed that a deal had been agreed for Bristol City’s Mo Eisa, but when the Robins failed to land their target, they had to scupper the Eisa deal.
Parker is 28-years-old,a Antigua and Barbudan international and has scored 16 goals in 59 league starts for the Gills.
Parker had this message for the fans after completing the move:
“They can expect to see a winner, someone that likes to work hard. Coming into this team you have to work hard because of how the team is doing and their aspirations.
“So for me they can just expect me to help the team in any way I can.
“I’ve played at The Valley with Gillingham. The fans here at the stadium, the atmosphere, when you are growing and you want to be a professional footballer, it’s the kind of environment you imagine.”
Lee Bowyer added:
“We’re pleased to get someone with his experience who knows the league inside out. He’s scored goals in this division.
“It was important to bring someone in who actually knows the league. He’s physical, a good strong lad. I think he’s a good all-around player.
“I can see him playing alongside Lyle, he’s got pace, he’s strong, he’s physical. He’s got that pace to be a threat in-behind and hurt teams on the break.”
Head of Recruitment, Steve Gallen, explained why he was keen to add Parker to the squad:
“When I heard there might be the potential for something to happen I was keen. He’s a player I’ve know for a long time, for more than 10 years. I remember him as a youth team player at QPR.
“I always knew Josh as a number 9, running in behind. He’s been playing as a 10 at times for Gillingham, in the whole at the top of the diamond and also a left winger.
“We’ve looked for someone who is a bit versatile and we’ll continue to look for another attacking player to complement that.”
Parker looks certain to start at Fleetwood on Saturday.
Billy Clarke’s contract was cancelled by mutual consent, and he has returned to former club, Bradford City.
Clarke said this on his departure:
“I want to thank everyone at Charlton – teammates, staff, fans and in particular physio Adam Coe – for the support I’ve received since joining the club 18 months ago. It’s a shame my injury happened but that’s football.
“I hope the boys get promoted and I wish everyone the best of luck.”