Nathan Jones, the manager of Charlton Athletic, reflects on his previous managerial experiences and his current role at the club. After a short stint at Southampton, Jones is now focusing on building a successful tenure with Charlton.
Nathan Jones on Southampton and Past Experiences
Nathan Jones managed Southampton between November 2022 and February 2023. During this time, he oversaw eight Premier League matches in a season that ended in relegation. Despite taking the club to the Carabao Cup semi-final, he only achieved one league victory, securing three points in a rare away win against Everton in January. His tenure ended after a 2-1 defeat at home to a 10-man Wolves side, making him the shortest-serving non-caretaker manager in Southampton’s history.
Nathan Jones said, “At Stoke, I categorically failed. I was given enough time. At Southampton, I was given eight games. I’m not sure David Blaine would’ve done a good job in eight games. That is an anomaly… Southampton. At Luton, I built something special and they reaped the benefit of that. Here we are endeavouring to build something. We’re going to have downs and we’re going to have ups. I went into Luton with the opportunity of building something – I did. I went into Stoke and wanted to build something but didn’t get the results to back that up. I went back to Luton and built it again. I was there for three years. Then I had a wonderful opportunity to go to a club and build something – but I was given eight games (at Saints). I’m not one to jump.”
Nathan Jones on His Role at Charlton
Currently, Nathan Jones is managing League One side Charlton Athletic, who are just outside the play-off spots, only on goal difference, after a recent 1-0 victory over Birmingham City. He expresses his commitment to the club and addresses the challenges faced.
Nathan Jones said, “If I’m not wanted and continue to get abuse – questioning everything I do – then fine, no problem – I’ll hand the reins over. I want to be here and the fans to enjoy it. I understand the frustration of certain players when they are not in the team. I want to be here with this football club. I love the club. I love the people. But we have to be united because we need an equilibrium. I want to be here and build something. I would like us to be successful and me to enjoy everything about being a manager at Charlton Athletic.”