For those entrusted with the reins of football clubs, the 2013/14 season has long been consigned to the history books.

Plans for the new season begin way before the current one has ended. The summer months are busy in all sections of a club and holidays for non-playing staff are difficult to fit in.

Arsene Wenger, for example, manages to take just a week’s break per year. At The Valley, physio Erol Umut tries to get away for a couple of weeks in the summer but is still in daily contact with the club by phone.

Katrien Meire was on holiday last week but is now back at her desk, preparing for next season.

Top of the agenda will be the appointment of a head coach. Roland Duchatelet has a number of candidates – including Jose Riga – in mind. A decision is likely to be made towards the end of this week or at the beginning of next.

Riga quickly won over the Valley faithful following the dismissal of the well liked Chris Powell and would be a popular choice with the fans.

The head coach has less input on recruitment than the traditional British manager so things could happen on the playing front before any appointment is made.

Talented academy left-back, Archie Edwards, signed his first professional contract on Monday.

Edwards was on Manchester United’s radar a year ago and the Addicks will be pleased that he has committed his future to the club.

The main deal to be sorted out amongst the senior players is a contract for Michael Morrison.

The centre-back is currently on holiday in Spain and has yet to be made an offer by Charlton. If the club are keen to extend Morrison’s stay at The Valley, it is likely a deal will be on the table  when he returns.

The player himself has made no secret of his desire to remain in SE7.

With Ben Hamer and Dorian Dervite seemingly certain to leave, and Leon  unlikely to be offered terms for next season, the Addicks rearguard will have a very different look to it.

Morrison has been a virtual ever present during his three years at the club, whether that presence is to continue should be clearer by the end of next week.