Charlton Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of left-back Ben Purrington on loan from Rotherham United until the end of the season.
The arrival of 22-year-old, who has played 26 games in League One this season on loan at AFC Wimbledon, ends Lee Bowyer’s search for a left-sided full-back.
Bowyer has been especially keen to bolster his options at left-back since the injury to Lewis Page in October.
Purrington becomes the Addicks third signing of the January transfer window following the arrivals of Jonny Williams and Chris Maxwell.
Speaking of his latest acquisition, Bowyer said: “Finally, we’ve been able to bring someone in to fill that position. We’ve been so unbalanced since we lost Pagey [Lewis Page] and Ben is a natural left-footer that will give us that width and get forward.
“I spoke to Richie Barker at Rotherham and he recommended him. He’s honest, steady and a good one-v-one defender that will bring us stability down the left. And the big positive is that he’s played every game at Wimbledon and is ready to go.”
Head of Recruitment Steve Gallen added: “He’s consistent. I’ve watched him quite a few times and so have our scouts. He’s got a nice left foot, he gets forward and he’s a big lad, so he’ll help us physically and with set pieces in both boxes. I think what Lee in particular liked about him is his ball retention. He keeps the ball very, very well and he’s a good, steady, consistent performer.”
Purrington began his career with Plymouth Argyle where he played 52 games in League Two before earning a move to Rotherham United. He played 10 games for them in the Championship and then 10 games for them last season in League One before his successful loan spell with AFC Wimbledon this season.
Purrington said: “I’m delighted to get it done and, hopefully, I can help push on in this promotion campaign. I’ve played against Charlton a few times, they play good football and have some really good players so I’m looking forward to playing here.
"Every time I’ve played at The Valley, it’s been a great atmosphere. It’s a great pitch and a great stadium and I can’t wait to be on that side of things with the supporters behind me.”
Full interviews with Purrington, Bowyer and Gallen will be available to watch on Valley Pass this afternoon. Valley Pass costs just £6.50 a month and you can sign-up here.