Highlights
– Charlton Athletic is nearing a deal to sign left-back Josh Edwards, which may signal an uncertain future for Tayo Edun at the club.
– Manager Nathan Jones appears to favor Thierry Small over Edun, as recent playing time decisions suggest.
– Edun has struggled to make a significant impact at Charlton, with limited successes and a potential departure looming.
Charlton Athletic is reportedly close to signing a new left-back, which may indicate that Nathan Jones does not see a future for Tayo Edun at The Valley.
According to London News Online, Charlton hopes to finalize a deal for Dunfermline Athletic’s Josh Edwards this week. Although an initial bid for the 23-year-old was rejected, Charlton seems to be the frontrunner in securing his signature despite significant interest from other League One clubs.
Charlton boss Nathan Jones outlined his ideal squad structure shortly after his arrival, aiming for 22 outfield players to ensure two options for each position.
Currently, Thierry Small and Tayo Edun are the two players available for the left-back position at Charlton, but Jones’ preference for Small suggests Edun’s future at the club might be in jeopardy.
| Charlton Athletic – Tayo Edun vs Thierry Small 2023/24 League One stats (Transfermarkt) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Player Name | Played | Wins | Draws | Defeats | Goals | Assists |
| Tayo Edun | 26 | 3 | 11 | 12 | 0 | 2 |
| Thierry Small | 14 | 4 | 9 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Jones prefers Small over Edun
When Jones arrived in early February, Edun had started all but one of Charlton’s previous 15 League One matches, missing only the game against Blackpool due to suspension.
In Jones’ first match as manager, Edun played the full 90 minutes in a 2-0 loss to Reading. However, the former Blackburn player made just four more appearances and was substituted at half-time in his only other start under Jones.
Small started each of the final 14 games of the season, missing only one match during the 14-game unbeaten run that kept the Addicks out of the relegation zone.
At the end of the season, Charlton extended Small’s short-term deal, securing him for the 2024/25 season. The teenager, who is attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Derby County, has also been offered a new long-term contract by the Addicks.
If Small remains with Charlton next season and Edwards joins from Dunfermline, Edun is likely to fall further down the pecking order. Jones prefers a streamlined squad, so there is a strong chance Edun will be allowed to leave the club.
Edun’s time at Charlton has been challenging
When Edun arrived from Blackburn Rovers last summer, there was optimism among the fans. He had experience in the Championship and had helped Lincoln City reach the play-offs in his previous League One stint.
However, the 26-year-old only experienced victory three times in 26 League One appearances for the Addicks. His wrongful red card against Northampton Town, just before the visitors scored a 97th-minute winner, epitomized his difficult season.
After Small secured the left wing-back position, Jones moved Edun to midfield for the last home game of the season against Shrewsbury Town, but he was substituted at halftime due to his lackluster performance.
With one year remaining on his contract, it wouldn’t be surprising if Edun finds a new club during this transfer window, particularly if Edwards joins and Small stays with Charlton.
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