Charlton's club director Steve Gallen has stated that Lee Bowyer is desperate for a long-term contract at the club.

Bowyer is still on a rolling one-year contract but owner Roland Dutchatelet refuses to give him a long-term deal due to the fact that he feels it may stall any potential buyers.

This is because of the compensation that a new owner would have to pay Bowyer if they were to decide that they were going to bring in their own people to the club.

Gallen has expressed that he feels Bowyer needs stability and that it would be the best option to give Bowyer a long-term contract at the club.

Speaking in a Charlton Q and A, Gallen said: "Lee's contract is up in the summer and he needs to be given a longer contract. He needs to be given some type of stability. We're desperate for it. Lee really wants that.

"Roland is aware of this and he is no fool. But he feels that potential buyers might stall if they want to bring in their own people and see that it will cost them a lot to get the current team out. But I agree with the fans that Lee must be given a longer contract."

Can you get 15 out of 15 in this Charlton quiz? Have a go now!

The Verdict

It'll be a big couple of months for Charlton supporters when they head into the second half of the season as Bowyer's one-year rolling contract always seems to leave doubt in fans' minds.

There's no reason why Bowyer wouldn't go to another club in the division if they're offering him more or the same money but on a long-term contract. This should be a serious worry for Addicks supporters this season, especially with how well they are competing at this level.

Bowyer will be highly sought after anyway, and the owner really has to make a decision soon, as the manager has worked absolute wonders at the club and needs some more security.