Charlton Athletic’s play-off hero, Patrick Bauer has announced that he has left the club.

Bauer netted a last-gasp winner for Lee Bowyer’s side in their League One play-off final clash with Sunderland at Wembley.

But the central defender has been linked with a move away from The Valley in recent months, with Blackburn and Preston among the clubs interested in signing him according to the Lancashire Telegraph. 

This seemingly has proved decisive in the 26-year-old making a decision on his future at The Valley.

Bauer took to Twitter to make the announcement and it's certain to raise interest in his services before the new season gets underway.

He made 35 league appearances in total for the Addicks as they surprised many to win promotion back into the Championship.

Bauer established himself as a firm fans favourite amongst the Charlton supporters, and they’ll be disappointed not to have acquired his services next season.

It remains to be seen as to where his next move will be, but he’ll be keen to have his future resolved at the earliest of opportunities.

Charlton have also recently confirmed that Lee Bowyer has signed a new contract with the club, which will be a huge relief to supporters, after they had previously struggled to reach an agreement with the Addicks boss.

The Verdict:

This will be hugely frustrating for Charlton supporters.

Bauer was hugely impressive for them last season, and without him, I don’t think they would have won promotion into the Championship.

They need to find a suitable replacement to fill the sizeable void left by Bauer in the centre of defence.