Athlone coach Anthony Hayes leaves Charlton Athletic after seven years

Charlton Athletic has announced the departure of Athlone native Anthony Hayes after seven years of service with the London club.

The 37-year-old's role with the League One outfit included a spell as caretaker manager of its men's first team late last year.

In a statement issued yesterday (Wednesday) evening, Charlton thanked Anthony Hayes for his contribution over the last seven years and wished him well for the future.

The statement included a quote from the local man who said: "Charlton is a special place with great people and a proud pathway that can and should never be taken for granted.

"I'll look back at my time with the club fondly and with immense pride.

"I want to wish the club, Michael (Appleton) and all of his staff, the players and the supporters all the very best for this season and beyond."

Hayes joined Charlton's academy in 2016 and was named Lead Coach of its Under-23s in 2021, before being promoted to the men's first-team coaching staff in the summer of 2022.

The Athlone IT graduate, and former Athlone Town player, was the club's caretaker manager for three games in late 2022 and he recently assisted Jason Pearce when he took charge of two matches ahead of the appointment of head coach Appleton.