"It's nice to be home," is Karlan Grant's reply when asked how the last few months have been sign he re-joined Charlton in the summer. The Addicks academy graduate returned after six years at West Brom, where he had turned down a new deal. "It all aligned at the time and hopefully it's still aligned at the end of the season," he added of why he decided to come back to south London.
When Grant left The Valley in January 2019 for Huddersfield, it was not well-received by some Charlton fans. But seven years and three clubs later, the 29-year-old is an experienced and established Championship player. "I think experience is a big thing," the forward exclusively told Sky Sports.
"I left so young, I've played a lot of games since then, so it's just bringing my experience to the group. "I got a bit of stick when I did leave, but that's football. Coming back, I'm one of them, so it's been good." Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Charlton's academy is famous for producing talented players, and is perhaps demonstrated no better than an Addicks forward line that comprises three graduates - Tyreece Campbell, Miles Leaburn and Grant.
They've done very well to get to this level. I'm here to help with my experience and help the team as well, so it's nice to see them do what they're doing," he said of his now team-mates. Alan Mwamba is the latest academy product making waves in the first team - Grant also tipping Ruben Reid as one to watch - with south London well-known as a hotbed for scouting.
It is the location that helps Charlton's academy thrive, with Grant also pointing to the staff as key in helping players develop. "The coaches here are amazing," he said. "The location in the south east [of London], I was lucky to play with players coming through who have played for England and at the highest level.
The pathway has always been there and will always be there. "That was me when I was a kid, playing cage football. Coming through the community, there's a lot of opportunity here and if kids find their time and believe in the system throughout their youth, they will definitely get a chance.
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