'Windy road' to play-offs for Charlton's Mannion
Charlton Athletic goalkeeper Will Mannion has said it has been a "windy road" to get to the cusp of the League One play-offs.A win on Good Friday against Northampton Town would guarantee the Addicks a place in the post-season shake-up.And ahead of the match at The Valley, Mannion has reflected on his career so far."It's been a windy road to get to this point, a lot of ups and downs and I've had to earn my trade a little bit in the lower leagues," the 26-year-old told BBC Radio London."I think that has sort of given me the sort of experience which has come to fruition this year."I'm really happy with how this year has gone and hopefully we can make it even better."
Mannion moved to Charlton from Cambridge United on a free transfer in the summer, previously spending time on loan at clubs such as Aldershot, Kidderminster Harriers and Havant & Waterlooville, as well as a year-long spell at Cypriot club Pafos.Following an injury suffered by Ashley Maynard-Brewer, Mannion has started the past 11 league matches for Nathan Jones' side during a run which has seen them pick up maximum points on eight occasions."It's a massive club to be playing in League One. We all want to get there to the next level and all I can say is I've really enjoyed the challenge," he added."The fans have been great, we just want to get back to where the club belongs."An outstanding personal effort of 12 clean sheets from 25 League One games has seen Mannion earn plaudits from pundits and fans alike this season, but his humble beginnings in his career means he remains grounded."It has been good, I think I owe them a few drinks at the end of the season for the clean sheets," Mannion said of playing behind first-choice central defenders Lloyd Jones and Macaulay Gillesphey."They've been brilliant, the whole back five have really and the way we play, pressing from the front, it is not just the defenders either."
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