Nathan Jones has signed a new long-term contract with "Charlton Athletic", ending all speculation linking him to the vacant managerial position at "Cardiff City". The 52-year-old Rhondda-born manager, who recently guided the Addicks to Championship promotion through the play-offs, was heavily linked with a return to his boyhood club.
"I'm very proud and delighted. I still had three years left but for the club to come to me and want to continue that journey meant a lot to me because it's a club that I love," – Jones stated on Friday morning.
Despite being a childhood "Cardiff" fan, Jones has opted to continue his project with "Charlton" following their Wembley success. The south London club was understandably reluctant to let their promotion-winning manager walk away.
Jones made it clear there's still work to be done at The Valley. "We've just taken one big step, but that's only one big step, we still have a long way to go to achieve our goals and I'm glad that I'll continue to work towards that," he added.
Interestingly, "Charlton" officials wasted no time expressing their delight at securing Jones's long-term commitment. Club chairman Gavin Carter emphasized the unity being fostered at the club.
"We have a really cohesive group forming at Charlton - from the players and coaching staff to the wider team behind the scenes and of course our supporters," – said Carter. "Nathan has been a key part of that unity and our success on the pitch this season means we are ahead of schedule in our long-term planning for the club."
Managing Director James Rodwell also chimed in, praising Jones's impact: "Nathan has done an incredible job since returning to the club last year. His leadership has been crucial in developing a culture and structure that has enabled us to progress."
With Jones now firmly off the table, attention at "Cardiff City" turns to Aaron Ramsey. The 34-year-old, who stepped in as interim boss for the final three games of the season, has emerged as the bookmakers' favorite for the permanent role, ahead of candidates like Brian Barry-Murphy, Des Buckingham, and Ian Evatt.
Ramsey still has a year left on his playing contract with the Bluebirds. Will the Welsh club gamble on a rookie manager in the cutthroat Championship? It's a risk, but one that could potentially galvanize a frustrated fanbase desperate for success.
