Post by coachiolalufc on Jul 8, 2006 7:31:54 GMT -1
SIMON SAYS...FAREWELL
Youngster Simon Walton has completed the formalities of his switch to Charlton Athletic.
The Leeds-born defender today agreed a -year deal with the Premiership club and has joined Charlton for an undisclosed fee.
Simon, who was in the final year of his Elland Road contract, made a big impression during his first season as a professional at United, but made just three starts last term.
"It is a blow, but we wish him all the best," said United manager Kevin Blackwell.
"He did a great job at a crucial time and hopefully we will be up there with him in the future."
The manager admits the decision to join Charlton was left to the 18-year-old after the Londonders expressed their interest.
"We don't have to sell," said the boss. "I put it to Simon and he said he wanted to speak to them. Now they've reached an agreement and good luck to him.
"If opportunities are of a nature where a player feels he can better himself then I've got to give him that opportunity. I don't think any manager has the right to deny an opportunity."
On completing his move, Simon said: "I am very grateful to Leeds for giving me the chance to move into The Premiership with Charlton.
"I had a year left of my contract and was aiming for a good season with Leeds, but when this offer came out of the blue I knew it was too good to turn down.
"Charlton are an established Premiership team with an excellent manager in Iain Dowie and I am really looking forward to getting started with pre-season."
source: O/S
Youngster Simon Walton has completed the formalities of his switch to Charlton Athletic.
The Leeds-born defender today agreed a -year deal with the Premiership club and has joined Charlton for an undisclosed fee.
Simon, who was in the final year of his Elland Road contract, made a big impression during his first season as a professional at United, but made just three starts last term.
"It is a blow, but we wish him all the best," said United manager Kevin Blackwell.
"He did a great job at a crucial time and hopefully we will be up there with him in the future."
The manager admits the decision to join Charlton was left to the 18-year-old after the Londonders expressed their interest.
"We don't have to sell," said the boss. "I put it to Simon and he said he wanted to speak to them. Now they've reached an agreement and good luck to him.
"If opportunities are of a nature where a player feels he can better himself then I've got to give him that opportunity. I don't think any manager has the right to deny an opportunity."
On completing his move, Simon said: "I am very grateful to Leeds for giving me the chance to move into The Premiership with Charlton.
"I had a year left of my contract and was aiming for a good season with Leeds, but when this offer came out of the blue I knew it was too good to turn down.
"Charlton are an established Premiership team with an excellent manager in Iain Dowie and I am really looking forward to getting started with pre-season."
source: O/S
