Charlton Athletic have the option to extend Thierry Small’s contract until the conclusion of the 2024-25 season, with manager Nathan Jones stating that he is pleased with the defender’s performance.
The Addicks signed the 19-year-old on February 2 after he was released by Southampton before the winter transfer window closed, allowing him to sign as a free agent after the deadline expired.
Small was on Everton’s books as a youth but rejected down a professional agreement to join the Saints for a tribunal-determined amount.
He scored on his Charlton debut – a 3-3 draw at Bolton Wanderers – and assisted Alfie May for his late goal to seal a 3-1 win at Cheltenham in midweek.
Asked if he expected the club to take up their option on Small, Jones told the South London Press: “What we won’t do is get rid of good players. We’ll protect good players – if Thierry falls into that then Thierry will be looked after.
“I’ve been really pleased (with his impact so far). Obviously I know Thierry from Southampton.
“He had a bit of a tough time – a big-money move as a teenager when he came to Southampton. Sometimes you have a little bit of a plateau before you can go again. We hope that is it for Thierry.
“He’s a nice kid and a fantastic athlete. He needs some polishing around the edges, as do most youngsters. We must appreciate the fact that he is still quite young. But I’ve been quite impressed with him.
“Thierry is one of maybe 20 players who have just given me everything and opened up their minds. They worked hard and maintained a positive mood every day. That has created a favorable climate, which is why we have been performing well.
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