Charlton Athletic have confirmed that Lee Bowyer has decided to leave the role of manager with immediate effect.
Ex-Charlton academy player, Bowyer, has made the decision to depart the East London club after three years at the helm – he leaves the club eighth in League One and two points off the playoffs with 11 games to play.
Bowyer has told Charlton supporters, that it was “emotional” for him to make the decision to leave, he also reflected on his tenure at the club as being a combination of “amazing times” and “tough times.”
“It was a difficult decision to leave. Everyone knows how I feel about the club. I could have gone before but I felt it was the right thing to do to stay and help the club through the tough times we've been through. Said Bowyer.
“We had some amazing times and some tough times. It has been emotional leaving. I'd like to thank all the players that I've worked with and the staff for the hours and hours of hard work that they did. I also want to thank the supporters. We wouldn't have had those great memories without them.
The Addicks initially hired Bowyer as a part-time coach under previous manager Karl Robinson, eventually being promoted to assistant manager and then after helping the club reach the playoffs during a spell as caretaker manager he was appointed as manager.
The highlight of Bowyer's time at Charlton was promotion to the Championship during the 2018/19 season via the playoffs, followed by the low of relegation back to League One the following season.
The former Leeds and Birmingham midfielder believes the club has finally settled on a “good owner” in Thomas Sandgaard, after enduring rocky spells under previous owners.
“The club is now in a place with a good owner that cares and wants to improve the place and I hope the club can continue to grow. It will always hold a special place in my heart.” Said Bowyer.
Charlton Athletic owner Thomas Sandgaard has put on record his fondness for Bowyer upon his departure.
Owner Thomas Sandgaard said: “I would like to thank Lee for everything he has done for Charlton. I have enjoyed working with him and wish him the best for his future. Our focus now is on finding the correct replacement to take this club forward.”
Assistant Manager Johnnie Jackson will take charge of Charlton for Tuesday's home fixture against Bristol Rovers.
Photo: Alamy
