Powell extends Charlton contract

Chris Powell today finally confirmed he has signed a 12-month contract extension at Charlton – as his agent revealed just how close he came to quitting The Valley.

The 34-year-old left-back, offered a new deal by the Addicks in May, wrote to the club a fortnight ago saying he would accept it and finally put pen to paper yesterday.

Powell, who stalled because he wanted the security of a two-year deal, disclosed he held talks with a number of clubs.

He rejected a one-year offer from Fulham and was hoping to win a two-season contract with either promoted Portsmouth or relegated West Ham.

Powell’s representative Tony Finnigan, asked how near his client was to leaving Charlton, told the Press Association: “He was very close.

“You don’t get closer than having your agent talking to other clubs.

“I spoke to Fulham and another club on his behalf. In the end, he decided to stay."