Nathan Jones was delighted with his side’s second-half performance as the Addicks fought back to claim a point against Lincoln City on Tuesday night.
“Second half I thought we were outstanding,” he told local media. “I want us to play front-footed, be aggressive, athletic, try to create chances, try to take the game to the opposition. And we did that in the second half.”
“Lincoln are in really good form. They’re well-coached, well-drilled, aggressive, they’ve got threats. But look, we were better tonight.”
The new boss was particularly impressed with the character his players showed having gone a goal behind against the run of play.
“I think they had one shot on target, which is tending to happen to this team at the minute – things are going in,” he said. “But they showed character tonight, to come back. They didn’t let their heads drop, and they were excellent in the second half.”
Jones was full of praise for a number of the squad’s senior players, especially captain George Dobson on his return to the side.
“He’s outstanding. He has real character, a great opinion of himself, which I like. I thought he was excellent tonight,” he said.
Chuks Aneke also returned to make his first appearance since October, and his presence made a huge difference. “He has real quality and knowhow,” said the gaffer. “He gave us an impact and we thought we might nick it at the end.”
It was an energetic performance from both the players on the pitch and Jones on the touchline. The new manager was keen to stress that his energy is key to his coaching style.
“I’ve had 11 months out, where I’ve rested, recuperated, paddle-boarded, had a great life sipping wine at two o’clock in the afternoon,” he said.
“I’m ready now, so every day this club’s going to get that energy, to drive something forward.”
