Charlton Athletic have confirmed that the club have triggered the option to extend Alfie Doughty's contract, which now keeps him at The Valley until the summer of 2021.

The 20-year-old academy graduate has had his breakthrough season this term at the south London club, playing a key part for Lee Bowyer's side during their notable injury crisis.

Doughty was recalled from his spell on loan at National League side Bromley in October, and has since gone on to make seventeen appearances for the Addicks.

The 20-year-old has adapted well to the rigours of the Championship during that short space of time, showing his versatility in a number of positions in the process.

He scored the winning goal in Charlton's 3-2 home win over Bristol City on Boxing Day, which was also his first for the Addicks.

Can you score full marks in this Charlton quiz?

Doughty has also registered three assists this term, and his impressive performances attracted interest in January from other clubs, most notably Fulham.

That has prompted Charlton to act by triggering this extension for the meantime, with his long-term future at the club still yet to be finalised.

Additionally, Charlton confirmed that negotiations are ongoing with the player and his representatives over a new deal at the club.

The Verdict

This is good news for Charlton for the meantime, as it gives the club a significant window in which to offer Doughty a new long-term deal.

That now looks likely to be discussed before the summer, as the youngster may have potential suitors after him in the upcoming transfer window.

However, this extension shows that the club have faith in him, and considering that Doughty has come through the youth system at Charlton, the likely outcome would be for a new deal to be agreed.