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Karl Robinson says leaving Charlton was not an easy decision

Manager departs Charlton after 17 months in charge and looks set to take Oxford United job; Lee Bowyer has taken over on a caretaker basis at The Valley

Charlton Athletic manager Karl Robinson with Lee Bowyer, Wigan Athletic v Charlton Athletic - Sky Bet League One - DW Stadium, 29 December 2017
Image: Lee Bowyer (left) is the new caretaker manager of Charlton after the departure of Karl Robinson (right)

Karl Robinson has departed Charlton Athletic and could be appointed Oxford United manager before the weekend, Sky Sports News understands.

The 37-year-old's departure by mutual consent from The Valley was confirmed on Thursday morning.

Robinson joined Charlton in November 2016 from MK Dons following Russell Slade's departure. It is believed he offered his resignation to club owner Roland Duchatelet on two different occasions.

Lee Bowyer and Johnnie Jackson will take charge of the Addicks' Sky Bet League One home match on Saturday against Plymouth Argyle.

Charlton captain Johnnie Jackson wears a black armband in tribute to PC Keith Palmer during the Sky Bet League One match between Charlton Athletic and Milton Keynes Dons at The Valley on April 4, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
Image: Addicks captain Johnnie Jackson will assist Bowyer

"I'd like to thank the Charlton fans for their support during my time at the club. Moving on now was not an easy decision for anybody but it is what is best for the club and everyone involved," Robinson told the club website.

"Bow [Lee Bowyer] and Jacko [Johnnie Jackson] have been fantastic during my time here and I have no doubt I'm leaving the club in good hands."

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Highlights from Robinson's last game in charge of Charlton, a 0-0 draw at home to Fleetwood last weekend

Charlton are ninth in League One, five points off the play-off positions with a game in hand over sixth-placed Plymouth.

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Robinson managed 27 wins in his 75-game tenure.

Charlton director Richard Murray said: "I'd like to place on record our thanks to Karl Robinson who has worked tirelessly during his time at Charlton. The club and Karl came to an agreement that is best for everyone involved.

"We're very grateful to Lee Bowyer and Johnnie Jackson for stepping forward in the club's time of need. Lee has impressed everyone at The Valley since coming back to the club last year and Johnnie has Charlton running through his veins.

"Together they are the best people to lead the club through an important few weeks."

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