Andy Gray: Final Farwell

By Nick Blackbourn
August 21 2009

Charlton have announced that striker Andy Gray has been sold to Barnsley. The move has been an open secret for some time but has been delayed as the take-over saga continues. Maybe this is a sign that the buyers are nearing a deal?

Andy Gray never really set the Valley on fire after arriving from Burnley in the 2008 January transfer window. He joined a out-of-sorts team and himself dipped in form. His departure makes our attacking options even more of a concern.

Last season was essentially a write-off for Gray, with injury and personal tragedy keeping him away from the first team. The move back to the North will suit both Gray, who returns to his family, and Charlton, who get his Championship wages off their expenses.

The fee is undisclosed but at this point freeing up cash for new signings is a clear priority. Hopefully additions will be made to the squad on the back of this move; both in defence and attack.

After off-loading Darren Bent, Marcus Bent and Kevin Lisbie after relegation, we have never really offered a complete front-line threat. Pardew's marque signings - Varney, Gary and (so far) McLeod and Fleetwood - have all disappointed.

Hopefully Burton's run of form will continue, but it is clear we need a more balanced striking unit needs to be formed, and quickly.

How do you assess Gray's Charlton tenure? Can we now expect arrivals?