Charlton announced the signing of 21-year-old Aston Villa winger Andre Green on Thursday morning.

‎Green made 22 appearances for Villa last season, to help Dean Smith’s side win promotion back to the Premier League via the play-offs.

He has been on loan at Preston this season, but has only made six appearances – two starts in the Carabao Cup, plus four sub appearances in the Championship.

Green is seen as a replacement for long term injury victim, Jonathan Leko.

Here is what Lee Bowyer had to say about his new recruit:

“We’re looking forward to working with him. He’s a young, exciting player who is quick. Last season he helped Villa get into the Premier League, so for me it is very exciting.

“You need a bit of pace in the team and Andre has that. He can play out wide but also up top, like a Karlan (Grant), or like a Leko. 

“Leko was an out-and-out winger when he came and we used him as a second striker and he got five goals and four assists. 

“We’ll be looking for the same sort of things from Andre. In one-v-one situations he’s very good, he can provide for others, so we’re just looking to get him on the ball in the final third,” said Bowyer.

There was more good news for Addicks fans when the keenly anticipated take over by ESI was completed.

Incoming chairman, Matt Southall, issued this statement:

“I have been fortunate to meet many of the dedicated staff who have served the club so loyally and diligently and whose love of Charlton Athletic shines through. 

“Their enthusiasm is part of the reason why we are so confident of building something special now the takeover is complete.

“Since our last statement on November 29th, it has been my privilege to attend every game and see for myself why this football club means so much to so many people.

“I have met hundreds of fans, attended some of the club’s community schemes and spoken with people for whom Charlton Athletic means everything.

“Without exception, they’ve reminded me of what Charlton stands for both as a football club and as part of the wider community. 

“Rest assured, we will never lose sight of that and will do everything in our power to protect that legacy and the long-term future of the club.

“This is a great opportunity for ESI and we are thankful to Roland Duchatelet and his team for giving us the chance to build on such strong foundations.

“Now, for us, the hard work begins. We already have plans in place to support Lee and his staff over the next month.

“But most importantly is strengthening our links with both the fans and the Charlton community so they may understand our short and long-term plans for the club and how we intend to build on the amazing support and goodwill already shown to ESI.”