Defender – linked with Sunderland and Portsmouth – keen to pay Addicks back

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Jason Pearce is looking to repay Charlton Athletic after signing a new contract until 2021.

The centre-back had 12 months to run on his previous deal.

Pearce had been linked with Portsmouth – his former club – and Sunderland.

“I wanted to get that stability with the club, I enjoy it here,” he told the club’s official website. “I love the club and it has been a good year and I feel like Charlton are on the up.

“The club obviously had a bit of interest for me in the summer but it didn’t change anything, I wanted to stay here.

“I’m proud that the club have allowed me to extend my contract and hopefully I can repay that with some good performances on the pitch.”