Tony Watt: 'I wanted to give my heart and soul to Charlton Athletic'

Scottish striker still pained by way Addicks career failed to reach full potential

“I genuinely thought I would stay at Charlton for 10 years.”

Tony Watt offers that comment, without prompting, just after we have exchanged opening pleasantries on the phone.

The 31-year-old has had 14 clubs in his football career but his time with the south Londoners is a period that deeply resonates with him.

Sometimes a footballer just connects with a fanbase. Watt had an almost instantly rapport when he signed from Standard Liege in January 2015.

Picture: Keith Gillard

“Ole, ole, ole, ole…Tony Watt! Watt! Watt! Watt!”

Charlton supporters quickly took him to their hearts.

There was a bit of glamour about the Scottish frontman, 21 at the time. He had scored the winning goal for Celtic, aged 18, in a Champions League tie against Barcelona at Parkhead.