Charlton Athletic suffered defeat at The Valley courtesy of Alex Neil’s Preston North End. The defeat leaves the Addicks in 10th place whilst the visitors now lead the Championship following Paul Gallagher’s decisive spot-kick. Despite the disappointing result, the home side welcomed back a familiar face on Sunday, as German defender Patrick Bauer returned to the club having departed for Preston in the summer.
Bauer will always have a special place in the hearts of the Charlton faithful having scored the crucial goal in the League One play-off final last season and he took to social media to thank the home support for his warm welcome, whilst also wishing Lee Bowyer’s side good luck for the remainder of the season.
Here’s how some of the Charlton supporters responded:
You’ll never be forgotten Pat, you’re always welcome!
— Valley Floyd Fred (@ValleyFloydFred) November 3, 2019
you caused the best moment of my life to date to happen for that i’ll always love you x
— cafc (@cafc_ollie) November 3, 2019
Forever a Charlton legend!!!
— Thomas hyde (@Thomashyde13) November 3, 2019
You’re an absolute @CAFCofficial legend Pat and always will be welcome back at The Valley ????? #onceanaddick
— Ian Barrett (@mrbser75) November 3, 2019
Bless you mate, all the best
— Neil Bright (@NeilBright) November 3, 2019
You’ll always be welcome Big man ??
— smaclennan (@Maccn5) November 3, 2019
What do we think?
Bauer is a highly-competent central defender, particularly at this level and although the 27-year-old made the move that shouldn’t deter from the fact he was an excellent servant to Charlton during his time at the Valley. The defender did go on to make 135 appearances for the Addicks during his time in south-east London, scoring nine goals in the process (TransferMarkt).
In a time where players are often abused on social media by opposition fans it’s great to see the Addicks’ recognising all the great work Bauer did in a red shirt and paying him the respect he deserves. There is still hope for football fans!