On-loan Nathan Byrne enjoying life at Charlton

Greg Stubley reports
 
Nathan Byrne revealed that he loves being at the club, following Charlton’s 3-0 victory over Gillingham on Easter Monday.

The versatile Wigan Athletic loanee slotted in at right-back for the win against the Gills with Jason Pearce, Ricky Holmes and Josh Magennis finding the net as the Addicks eased to victory at The Valley on Easter Monday.

And the former Tottenham Hotspur academy graduate says that, while Karl Robinson’s men have underachieved this season, he has loved playing regularly for the club.

“I think there’s disappointment knowing that we’ve underachieved this season but we’re just trying to win our remaining fixtures with the focus on building for next year and having a go for promotion,” said Byrne.

“When I came here, I saw the talent in the dressing room but we have underachieved.

“Next year, a full pre-season with the manager will help the boys and I’m certain that Charlton will be up there.

“I love [playing for] this club and I’m enjoying my time here. I’m now focusing on my last two games here then we'll see what happens.”

Byrne also stated that while he does not enjoy playing right-back, he does so for the sake of the team and to get regular playing time.

The 24 year-old said: “Right-back is not my number one position, but I’m more than happy to do a job for the team.

“When I first signed here, I spoke to the assistant, Richie Barker, about how I’d love to join but as long as I don’t play right-back.

“But then Chris Solly got suspended and then injured so I filled in a lot in that position.

“However, I’m happy to be playing as it’s been a frustrating couple of years for me and I’m really enjoying my time here.”

Charlton travel to Chesterfield on Saturday, followed up by hosting Byrne’s former club Swindon Town, the following Sunday.

Byrne now feels that with the squad almost fully-fit, they can focus on achieving the maximum amount of points before the end of the campaign.

Byrne, who's side have been training at The Valley recently, said: “There have been games where we have not turned up and not played to our capability. It’s disappointing for us but also for the fans.

“Obviously this team has been plagued with injuries - more than most in the Football League - but whoever can play should be putting the performances in. It’s frustrating but that’s what the squad is for.

“Now the time has come where The Valley pitch can be played on a bit more and we’re thriving on it.

“When you’re doing the same thing every day, it psychologically helps and we want to build on that.”