FORMER Saints boss Nathan Jones has been appointed Charlton Athletic manager almost 12 months on from his St Mary's departure.

The Welshman, who was dismissed by Southampton on February 12, 2023, now makes his return to the dugout in League One.

The Addicks had been searching for a new manager since January 23 having sacked Michael Appleton after their 3-2 defeat against Northampton.

Jones has been tasked with keeping Charlton, who were tipped for promotion at the start of the season, in League One as they currently sit 19th. 

The 50 year old watched on as his new side fell to a 1-0 home defeat against Derby County on Saturday.

He previously enjoyed a successful campaign as Charlton’s under-21s lead coach in the 2012-13 season before becoming Brighton & Hove Albion’s assistant coach.

Speaking to Charlton's media team after his appointment, Jones said: “I am extremely excited by the challenge in front of me at Charlton.

"It is a club that I have fond memories of from my time here and I want to play my part in moving the club forward.

“I have been approached by a number of clubs to get back into management but I have been waiting for the right opportunity.

"From my conversations with the board and given the long-term nature of the contract, I can see there is a real appetite to build something here which I am really looking forward to being a part of.”

Charlton's chairman James Rodwell added: “We’re really pleased to appoint Nathan Jones.

"He is a manager of real pedigree who has a track record of building successful teams over a period of time.

“Nathan was the clear stand out. He is a great fit for Charlton given his ability to get his teams playing football on the front foot, with a passion and an intensity.

"He is an excellent coach, who is tactically savvy and an outstanding developer of talent.

“The ownership group has a long-term focus of bringing success to Charlton Athletic and Nathan will play a key role as we look to take this club to the next level."

Jones’ first game in charge will see him take on Ruben Selles’ Reading.