Athlone man Hayes named Charlton caretaker manager

Charlton Athletic have placed Athlone man Anthony Hayes in caretaker charge after sacking manager Ben Garner on Monday.

Hayes, who has been working as first-team coach at the south London outfit, will be supported by under-18s boss Jason Pearce, the former Addicks captain.

The former Athlone Town and Limerick player secured his UEFA Pro Licence in Ireland earlier this year.

He retired aged 23 in 2009 following a cruciate ligament injury and opted to stay in the game, aiming to rise the coaching ladder.

The now 36-year-old has been on the Charlton staff for six years in varying roles in youth football and coaching.

He previously role to assistant head of coaching at Brentford.

Alongside goalkeeping coach Glyn Shimell, they will oversee the team's FA Cup second-round replay at Stockport on Wednesday.

Garner was axed with Charlton sitting 17th in the Sky Bet League One table, having won just five of their 20 matches so far this season.

Hayes told CharltonTV: "My complete focus is on trying to help the players and giving them real clarity in how we want to look with and without the ball. That's my first and foremost priority.

"Of course, though, this is a massive football club, I have been here quite a few years now. I understand how big it is in the community and what it means to the fans, so, of course, in the time that I am doing this job I will give everything I can to make sure the team is successful."