Derby stunned as Lampard replacement makes shock U-turn

Matt Stead

Charlton manager Lee Bowyer has signed a one-year contract extension after finally reaching agreement with the club.

The Sky Bet League One play-off winners announced on Monday they had failed to agree terms with the former Leeds and Newcastle midfielder but a deal has now been concluded.

An official statement on the club’s website stated that Bowyer “wanted more” despite being offered a wage “three times what he had since his last increase when he became permanent manager in September”, “six times what he earned when he started as assistant manager in 2017” and “50% more than what any Charlton manager previously had (excluding the Premier League years).”

Bowyer was soon installed as the favourite to replace Frank Lampard as Derby manager in the likely event that he leaves for Chelsea this summer.

But he had a surprise change of heart and extended his Charlton deal on Tuesday morning.

The club said in a statement: “Charlton Athletic are delighted to confirm that Addicks’ boss Lee Bowyer has agreed a contract extension with the club.”

Charlton beat Sunderland at Wembley last month to secure promotion to the Championship.

Bowyer said: “We went on a real journey last season. The club came together – the players, the staff, the fans and we achieved something special. The journey hasn’t finished yet and I’m delighted this has all been agreed.

“This has been a long process and I never wanted to leave, I love this club. I’d like to thank the owner for giving me the initial opportunity and now for continuing to believe in me.”

Bowyer, 42, was appointed full-time manager in September.

Owner Roland Duchatelet said: “What Lee has achieved in his short time at the club is very impressive. He has united the club once again.

“I would like to thank Lee for his professionalism during this process. While the negotiations have been ongoing, he has continued to work on building a squad for the club’s Championship campaign.

“Stability is essential and I am very pleased we now have the best man in place to lead us forward next season.”