Words John Edwards

Neil Gibson has pulled off a transfer coup by bringing in-demand Blackburn Rovers defender Charlie Olson back to The J.Davidson Stadium on a permanent deal.

Highly-rated centre-back Charlie had no shortage of admirers after rising through the ranks at Blackburn to skipper their under-21s team and being targeted by Oldham manager Micky Mellon for a season-long loan on the Latics' return to the Football League last August.

But when he assessed his options after being recalled by Blackburn a month ago, he came down in favour of relaunching his career as a fully-fledged Alty player, much to the delight of Neil and assistant Lee Jones and the club's fanbase.

The 21-year old from Liverpool first took the eye in Alty colours during an opening loan spell that was cut short by injury.

He was back with us for an initial month a year ago, and when that was extended for the remainder of the season, it proved instrumental in the Robins finishing just four points outside the play-off places in ninth place.

He made 25 appearances and showed a maturity beyond his years with a flair for organising and coaxing those around him as well as an aptitude for defensive strength and reliability that quickly made him a firm favourite with Alty supporters.

So much so, in fact, that at the end of season awards for the 2024-25 campaign, he was voted Alty's young player of the year.

Now he is back on a permanent basis after signing an 18-month deal, and everyone at the club wishes him every success in Alty colours as we bid to end the season in style with a squad that has been significantly strengthened in recent weeks.

Look out for an Alty TV interview with Charlie in the next couple of days - and if you'd like to sponsor our new signing all the info can be found here.