Charlton legends Mark Fish and Shaun Bartlett returned to The Valley on Saturday to watch the Addicks pick up a big three points against league leaders Birmingham City.
The South African duo made a combined 250 appearances during the club's Premier League years, contributing to two top-10 finishes.
Fish and Bartlett held a Q&A with supporters in the Meantime Fans' Bar on the day, with all proceeds going towards the club's new-look Ex-Players' Association. Former players can register for the new Association using this form.
"Just walking into The Valley and seeing the stadium brings back such fond memories," explained Fish. "Getting the questions that were asked were quite emotional, so I'm very grateful that we're here. The experiences that I had as a Charlton player comes to the forefront now, so I'm grateful for all of the fans and for everyone that was involved at the time when I was at Charlton."
Bartlett added: "It's almost 20 years now since we've been back. It's great to be back at The Valley - the appreciation the fans showed while we played and even now has just been unbelievable. It will forever be in my heart. It's the team that gave me the opportunity to play in the Premier League and we have some great memories at The Valley and also with the fans away."
Fish continued: "We had a good coaching staff, phenomenal players and then we had the fans. I think that made Charlton what it was and what it became in the period that we were here, so we were able to remain united on and off the field. That showcased in the performances that we did for the Charlton fans, so again very grateful to have experienced it."
"If it's in your DNA, you cannot get rid of it and hopefully that will come to the forefront today," said Bartlett. "Charlton has always been a club where we never give up. It's always about fighting until the last minute."
The Addicks return to The Valley on Saturday, October 19th to take on Stockport County. Click here to purchase your tickets.
(Article by Lloyd Hassell)
