Charlton Athletic owner Thomas Sandgaard has told head coach Dean Holden's representatives that he wants to get a new contract sorted quickly. 

The 43-year-old replaced Ben Garner at the League One club in December and has done a impressive job.

Charlton were 18th in the table when Holden took charge, with the prospect of a relegation battle a real concern. He's led them clear of that scrap and up to 11th in the two months since.

The young coach is only on a contract until the end of the season and though he's suggested he's keen to stay on at The Valley, the ongoing uncertainty concerning a takeover has left his future up in the air.

However, Holden has told South London Press that he is expecting to have talks over a new deal with Sandgaard this weekend and has had indications from the Danish businessman that he wants wrapped up quickly.

He explained: "I’m sure over the weekend talks will begin.

“We have not yet started the talks on that.

“Thomas has indicated to my representative that he wants to get a deal sorted quickly.

“That would ideally be done face to face but with him being in Denmark, that’s probably going to happen at the weekend.”

Sandgaard has been in Denmark for the funeral of his mother, who passed away last week.

Charlton face a tough test tomorrow as they head to Pride Park to take on sixth-place Derby County.

The Verdict

This is a promising update.

Tying down Holden is vital for Charlton given the impressive job that he has done amid plenty of off-field uncertainty.

Losing him at the end of the season would be a nightmare situation but it seems Sandgaard is keen to get things wrapped up.

That said, fans won't be holding their breath given the owner's broken promises previously.