Nathan Jones: Charlton Athletic appoint ex-Luton Town boss

The former Luton Town, Stoke City and Southampton boss has been confirmed as the Addicks' new manager.

Jones, 50, takes charge of the south London club who sit 19th in the third-tier, three points above the relegation zone.

He is Charlton's third manager of the season after the sackings of Dean Holden and Michael Appleton.

The Welshman will take charge for the first time against fourth-bottom Reading on Saturday.

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Charlton say Jones has signed a "long-term contract" at a club where he was Under-21s coach in 2012/13.

The Valley club's chairman Jim Rodwell said in a statement: “We’re really pleased to appoint Nathan Jones.

Carlisle go to The Valley next month (Image: PA)

"He is a manager of real pedigree who has a track record of building successful teams over a period of time.

“We were really impressed with the quality of candidates interested in coming to Charlton. Through our initial research, the in-depth interview process and the references we took, Nathan was the clear stand out.

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"He is a great fit for Charlton given his ability to get his teams playing football on the front foot, with a passion and an intensity. He is an excellent coach, who is tactically savvy and an outstanding developer of talent."

Jones said he was "extremely excited" by the challenge and added: “I have been approached by a number of clubs to get back into management but I have been waiting for the right opportunity.

"From my conversations with the board and given the long-term nature of the contract, I can see there is a real appetite to build something here which I am really looking forward to being a part of.”

Carlisle will take on Jones' side at The Valley on Saturday, March 9.