Charlton Athletic: Nathan Jones reveals what he thinks of the atmosphere at The Valley | OneFootball

Nathan Jones drops a defiant claim ahead of Blackburn Rovers clash

Nathan Jones has dropped a defiant claim in his latest press conference ahead of Charlton Athletic's home fixture against Blackburn Rovers this weekend.

Charlton Athletic have adapted to life back in the Championship well, having won two, drawn two and lost two of their six league matches so far, with a victory away at struggling Sheffield United last time out the highlight of the season so far.

Their eccentric Welsh manager, Jones, has been a revelation at The Valley since his arrival in February 2024, having steered the club away from relegation in his first few months in charge before guiding them to promotion in his first full season.

Now with the Addicks in their first season back in the second tier since 2020, Jones spearheaded a busy summer window at the club this summer, bringing in 10 new signings to prepare for this campaign.

The likes of Charlie Kelman, Rob Apter, Harvey Knibbs, Tanto Olafe, Thomas Kaminski, Reece Burke and Joe Rankin-Costello all joined the club for fees, whilst Amari'i Bell and Sonny Carey joined the club on free transfers, with James Bree joining on loan from Southampton.

This has shaped the Charlton squad nicely as they prepare to try and stay out of a relegation battle this year.

Nathan Jones praises home atmosphere ahead of Blackburn Rovers clash

Nathan Jones has made a defiant claim to the Charlton support ahead of their clash with Blackburn on Saturday.

Speaking to the club website, Jones said: "We love playing back at The Valley. The crowd is fantastic and so is the atmosphere. Matchdays are real occasions now and something we always look forward to."

The Welshman will, however, be aware that getting a result against Blackburn will be no easy feat, with the Rovers no doubt hungry for a victory following the postponement of their match against Ipswich Town due to a waterlogged pitch in the 80th minute, where they led 1-0.

Jones said: "Blackburn have had a decent start with an experienced manager, narrowly missing out on the play-offs last year following a good second half to the season. They've started quite well this time out and it’s another tough game, and one where we have to concentrate on us.

Charlton will no doubt have to be at their best if they want a result against Blackburn, and their home support will have to be in full voice to spur on their team in the hope of a result.

Charlton Athletic have proved to be a tough opponent in the Championship so far this season

Charlton have proven to be good value for their points this season, having picked up eight from six matches and comfortably above the relegation places.

Their matches have not been flushed with goals, having scored just four goals this season so far, the joint second-worst alongside Portsmouth, but have only conceded five goals, the joint second-best alongside seven other clubs.

It's clear to see that Jones has valued his side's defensive ability above all else this season, with both of their victories at this stage both ending in 1-0.

If they are to seriously rise the table this season, they must find a way of scoring more goals whilst keeping the defence tight, and unlocking summer signing Kelman may prove to be the key for this.

Charlton will look to make The Valley their fortress this season, and with the noise of the Addicks supporters behind them, they will always stand a chance of a result, no matter the opposition.