The young midfielder discusses his breakout season as the Addicks avoid League One relegation.
The chances of becoming a professional footballer are incredibly tiny, but they are significantly boosted if you are named after one of the best players to have ever lived.
Charlton’s Karoy Anderson has two middle names: ‘Lovebourne’ after his grandfather and ‘Zidane’ following his mother’s adoration for French legend Zinedine Zidane.
Anderson has not only made it to the professional ranks, but is having a breakout season at Charlton.
The 19-year-old midfielder has started their past eight games under Nathan Jones and has caught the eye as the Addicks have gone unbeaten on that run to pull clear of trouble in League One
“In pre-season, I was just working hard, but becoming a first-team player this season has been really good and something I didn’t expect” , he told Standard Sport.
“Some of the players on the team had previously worked with him [Jones] and raved about his abilities. I was delighted to work with him. He expects a lot from each individual, but he never puts you down. That strikes a pretty excellent balance. I am more than eager to give him what he demands.
“The crew is in a great mood right now, and the atmosphere on the training site is fantastic. There will be hard spots, but he has been able to transform the dynamic around here.”
What a moment! 😍@k_aando's first league goal 👏#cafc | @CharltonAcademy | @ValleyGold pic.twitter.com/IbpraxOPTv
— Charlton Athletic FC (@CAFCofficial) February 28, 2024
Anderson, who was born in Lewisham and raised in Sydenham, made his Jamaica debut in October but struggled to make an impression under Michael Appleton and had to rebuild his reputation under Jones.
