Replacing a club legend like Chris Powell is a tough job and winning over the fans is no easy task.

Jose Riga arrived at Sparrows Lane as Powell was clearing his desk. Though understandably gutted, Powell also had a sense of relief, the pressure he had been working under was intense.

Powell will complete the course to obtain his UEFA pro-license badge during the summer. Among those alongside him will be Manchester United duo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

Riga was unknown in England and though he had briefly in charge at Standard Liege, he was more synonymous with coaching at youth level.

He quickly won over the players and fans and led the club to safety after accruing 23 points from his 16 games in charge.

Riga’s appointment was on a short term basis and his deal ends this summer. Many would like the popular Belgian to be at the helm for next season and he will meet with owner, Roland Duchatelet, on Wednesday to discuss his future.

Certainly Riga will be offered the job for the new season, but will want to ensure the terms of the deal allow him the freedom he needs to shape the team as he wants.

There is goodwill on both sides so hopefully an acceptable deal can be struck.

There will also be discussions regarding the coaching staff. Powell’s assistant, Alex Dyer, is expected to move on, though Damien Matthew may stay.

Riga’s right hand man, Karel Freye, has already left to take up his position as head coach at St Truiden.

Charlton’s Under-14 squad are taking part in a tournament in the idyllic setting of the Cayman Islands. They opened their campaign on Tuesday evening against the Cayman Islands B team.

The youngsters got off to a great start, winning the match 4-1.