'I should take the pressure off my players!' - Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones on first return to St Mary's Stadium since his sacking by Southampton

Addicks boss also provides assessment of Thomas Kaminski's performances since summer switch from Luton Town

Nathan Jones is set to make his first return to former club Southampton since his dismissal in February 2023 on Saturday.

And the Welshman reckons that the ire directed at him by the home supporters will allow his Charlton Athletic players to fully focus on the task at hand.

Jones lasted just 95 days in the Saints hotseat before being sacked but did lead the then Premier League club to victory over Manchester City in the EFL Cup quarter-final.

The 52-year-old made his return to management with Charlton in February 2024 and led them to League One play-off glory in his first full season in charge.

Jones has received abuse from Stoke City and Southampton fans during matches this season.

Charlton manager Nathan Jones/Picture: Paul Edwards

Jones could be seen shouting some choice words back at Stoke’s travelling support after Charlton’s 1-0 victory at The Valley last week.

Portsmouth’s away end also chanted about the Charlton manager due to his previous affiliation to their South Coast rivals.

Asked about how much he can tune out the off-pitch noise, Jones told South London Sport: Charlton Athletic Edition: “I’ve got ears…so I can hear it! But it seems to be every week. I don’t know why [that is]. Against Stoke and Southampton it is because you have managed those.