Johnnie Jackson reveals which Charlton Athletic player is a future Premier League star

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Johnnie Jackson has backed Joe Aribo to play in the Premier League – but is urging the Charlton Athletic midfielder to fully believe in himself.#

Addicks manager Lee Bowyer wants Aribo, Tariqe Fosu, Karlan Grant, Lewis Page and Dillon Phillips to sign new contracts – with the quintet all having just over eight months to run on their terms.

Charlton assistant boss Jackson said: “I’ve seen it too many times – lads have done okay for a shortish period for us and then moved on to Championship clubs; I think of Callum Harriott, Jordan Cousins and Diego Poyet.

“Okay they have gone up a level and got more money but their careers stall because they don’t play football. I hate that, it is a real frustration.

“I’d much rather they stay here, really establish themselves and then if the move comes they are ready to play. There is no great rush for me with these lads – if the likes of Tariqe and Joe continue to improve then the moves will be there for them.”

Camberwell-born Aribo, 22, has played 69 times for Charlton and played every minute in League One this season apart from sitting  out the away game at Southend.

“He can play at the top,” said Jackson. “He has stepped up again to be a top performer. He needs to bring more personality, he’s a shy lad. He can come out of his shell a little bit more – be more vocal.

“I tell him ‘you need to be one of our best players’ and often he has been the best player. Believe. I don’t think he has always believed in himself enough.

“I’ve seen stuff in games and in training – his ability is unquestionable. He needs to add more goals to his game.

There is no reason he can’t – he is good in the air and gets in good positions in the box. He needs to be a bit calmer and cooler in front of goal.

“Joe can play in the Premier League, for sure.”