Exclusive: Charlton Athletic Midfielder Set To Depart

Charlton Athletic midfielder Conor McGrandles is set to depart Charlton Athletic following a difficult spell with the Addicks with several clubs enquiring regarding his availability sources have informed The Real EFL.

The 27-year-old is expected to leave the club on another loan deal, however should a permanent move present itself it will likely be the preferred option. The midfielder still has two years remaining on his contract meaning a move would require a fee. Several League One and Two clubs have already enquired regarding his availability in both a permanent and loan capacity.

It has been a difficult spell for the Scotsman since joining the club following his departure from fellow League One side Lincoln City in 2022. Former manager Ben Garner signed the player during his first window at the club, but soon found himself sacked in favour of current boss Dean Holden. Since the former Bristol City man has arrived at the club, McGrandles has been unable to find a place in the starting line up, departing on loan to Cambridge United in January.

He made 19 appearances for Mark Bonner’s side as they confirmed survival in the third tier. Since returning to his parent club he has had to settle for a place on the bench in all four league games to date.

Arguably his two most successful spells came at Lincoln City and MK Dons. He was a key component in the Imps’ push to the League One Play-Off Final where they were defeated by Neil Critchley’s Blackpool at Wembley. He often took the captain’s armband in the absence of the often injured Liam Bridcutt and then deputise on occasion for Jorge Grant. During his time at The Stadium MK he made 91 appearances scoring on four occasions.

He has also been on the books of Falkirk, Norwich and also a Rangers during his uiuth career.

Writer’s View

For whatever reason, it has never really worked for McGrandles at Charlton. The move looked promising, coming off the back of a superb spell at Lincoln City on a free transfer and Charlton needing that energetic midfield type to break up play and allow their more creative options to flourish. However as soon as Ben Garner started to struggle and look for answers, then Dean Holden replace him at a time the player had been injured he has seemingly never been in the plans. For such a talented footballer, it’s a real shame that some of his peak years have been spent underutilised. Let’s hope that Charlton play ball and allow him to go and continue his career away from the club without demanding a large fee.