Charlton Athletic boss reveals exact squad size he wants to have at his disposal next season

Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones has announced the optimal team size for next season.

The Addicks manager announced earlier this week that he will reduce the number of players on the League One club’s roster during the summer transfer window.

When asked by the South London Press about his ideal squad size, Jones replied: “Twenty-two outfield players and three goalkeepers – 25, no more.”

“They include young elite development players who have progressed through the ranks. You must have two elevens who truly compete against one another in order to avoid weakening the squad at any moment and instead add to it.

“There needs to be competition. “Anything more than that makes training difficult.”The most important thing we can do is improve its equilibrium. There are so many center midfielders here that it’s impossible to keep everyone pleased and fit.

“We have to one add balance, two add quality and three streamline.”

When asked if there are any places he feels the squad is short, Jones said: “There are, but I’ve come in and inherited

Pretty much everyone.
“So, first and foremost, we must examine and determine what steps we can take, and then proceed accordingly.

“We want to add balance so that we may play in different ways, not just one. We want to be able to play in multiple ways.

“We want it to be streamlined so that everyone feels comfortable playing. We currently have four or five players missing from the squad on Saturdays, which is demoralising for them. It’s challenging for me to keep having these conversations all the time. I want them to believe in everything and to push, but it’s difficult; I’ve been there as a player.
“We need about 20 players I can trust and rely on. And guys who can play the manner we desire at Charlton. Then enhance quality so that we can win games.