24 hours ago, it looked as if the Addicks would not bring Jose Riga back for a second spell at The Valley. Come Thursday morning, he had penned an 18-month deal.

Riga picked up an impressive 24 points from 18 games at the end of the 2013/14 season, and he will need a similar points-per-game ratio this time around if his side are to avoid relegation.

Charlton owner, Roland Duchatelet, made a rare statement that coincided with Riga’s appointment. Duchatelet acknowledges errors have been made this season, as well as welcoming Riga back:

“This has been a disappointing season for everyone connected with Charlton and the board take responsibility for that.

“Some things, like an unprecedented number of injuries, we could not have foreseen, but we have also made errors in recruitment, mistakes we have immediately tried to address in January.

“It was also crucial we dealt with the position of the head coach. José did an excellent job in his short period with Charlton two seasons ago. He was very popular with supporters and I believe that he will get us back on track. There are 20 matches of the season still to play and it’s vital that we battle for every point,” said Duchatelet.

The switch back to Riga may have been triggered by the problems that Nebojsa Vignjevic may have had in obtaining a work permit.

Riga has yet to return to England and Wim de Corte and Jason Euell will take charge of the team at Hull on Saturday.

Charlton have received a much needed boost, with the news that teenage prodigy, Ademola Lookman, looks set to return for the game with Blackburn at The Valley on Saturday week.

Lookman picked up a hamstring injury against Wolves over Christmas and has missed the last three games.

Cult hero, Yann Kermorgant, looks unlikely to return to The Valley. Bournemouth have signed striking duo, Benik Afobe and Lewis Grabban, this week.

Kermorgant now looks surplus to requirements at Dean Court, and the popular Breton has been linked with moves to Bristol City, Charlton, Hull and Middlesbrough, but Reading look favourites to sign him.

Tony Watt is expected to complete a £2million permanent switch to Cardiff on Thursday. It remains to be seen if the money will be used to fund further forays into the transfer market.