Charlton Athletic

Charlton Athletic captain discusses his managerial future

Charlton Athletic captain, Johnnie Jackson spoke to the South London Press, discussing his future and ambition to manage the Addicks one day, but is keen to get experience first.

Johnnie Jackson, a man who joined the Addicks back in 2010 under Phil Parkinson, who made over 200 appearances for Charlton Athletic, and scored over 50 goals is keen to manage the red south-east London outfit one day, which he has built a strong affinity with over the years.

On the final game of this season, and in the build up to that game against Swindon Town, Karl Robinson made clear that the game would be special for the skipper, and that he would most definitely lead the teams out on what would be an emotional day.

Throughout the game The Valley faithful sung his name loud and proud, making sure that the captain was well aware of the fans appreciation and love for everything he is offered and given to Charlton.

Robinson has stated that Jackson will move into a first-team coaching role from the start of next season, with the skipper’s eventual ambition to take over from Robinson one day, in the hope to replicate the similar success that former Charlton players turned managers have had in the past.

Former player, Alan Curbishley (1990s – 2007) led Charlton to the Premier League and consolidated and sustained the side which saw them compete with some of the best teams in the world for seven consecutive seasons. As well as the former player, Chris Powell, who led Charlton Athletic to win Sky Bet League One in the 2011/12 season, finishing at the summit on an impressive 101 points.

When speaking to the South London Press, the skipper made clear that he has never previously been offered the job at a time when Charlton have seen several managerial changes over the last three years.

“I’ve never been offered it,” said Jackson. “They have sought my advice over certain things and I’ve been there to give an opinion if needed.

However, the skipper did make clear that if he was offered the job he would have taken it, because he loves the club and would do whatever is requried to help the Addicks.

“If they’d asked me before now I’d have probably done it – because I love the club and want to help in any way I can.

But, Jackson would prefer to get experience under his belt first, in order to make sure he can make a success of being a manager at The Valley.

“One day I would love to manage the football club. I’ve always made it clear it is something I want to do. But I want to be ready when I do it. I don’t want to feel like I’m not in a position to do it yet.

“The ideal scenario is getting experience under my belt as a coach so if, God-willing, the time comes then I can be a success, rather than worrying about being any good.”

Some players are great on the field but are not gifted off the field from a coaching, tactical and managerial perspective, and it can lead to players losing their reputation and being remembered for the wrong things as a manager rather than the great things as a player.

However, Jackson is willing to take the risk because he has confidence in his ability.

“But you have to roll the dice in life,” is Jackson’s response. “I want to be given an opportunity. Look at Powelly, what he did made him even more of a hero.

“I’d see it as an opportunity, rather than a hindrance. Obviously, this is down the line. I want to get a lot of coaching experience first.

“I’ve got every confidence in myself that I’d be good at it. I wouldn’t be having these thoughts if I didn’t think I was capable.

“I’ve seen first-hand it is a tough game. You need a little bit of luck and need time. It’s a difficult job – but I’d love to do it.”

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