Blackburn Rovers-linked defender signs for Championship rivals

Blackburn Rovers-linked defender Danny McNamara has signed for Championship rivals Charlton Athletic.

McNamara was touted as a potential free agent signing for Rovers last month. The 27-year-old had left Millwall having spent his entire professional career at The Den, making 166 appearances.

Yet he has moved to London rivals Charlton Athletic, where he spent his youth career up to the age of 14. He bolsters Nathan Jones' options at right-back, signing a two-year contract, and is delighted to return.

“I’m absolutely delighted to get it done,” McNamara said on Charlton’s website.

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“I started my career here when I was really young, so it holds a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to get going again.

“I know how big of a club Charlton are. I’ve got a lot of family and friends who are Charlton fans – it’s a great community and I’m delighted to be a part of it.

“As soon as I met the manager, I knew it was the right place for me. The ambitions of the club and what he wants to build is very exciting and I want to be a part of that.”

Boss Nathan Jones added: “We’re really delighted to add Danny to our ranks. He’s someone that’s got massive experience of the Championship and knows what it takes to win games. He adds real competition to the right-back area.

“He’s an impressive individual in that he’s a winner, and he wants to achieve – we need those types of characters here. As a character, as an athlete, as a player, we’re delighted to have him with us and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

With Ryan Alebiosu and Matty Litherland, plus the injured Lewis Miller, right-back is not an obvious priority for Rovers. Of course, there is the potential of Alebiosu leaving if a big offer comes in for the sought-after full-back.