Harry Lennon will not be loaned back to Gillingham after Charlton recalled the youngster last week.

The 20-year-old defender made a big impression at the League One club, adding solidity at the back while the Kent side climbed to 2nd in the table.

The Gills were said to be desperate for Lennon to return at some stage, but Charlton interim head coach Karel Fraeye has stated that the Addicks require his services.

“No, he will not be allowed to return,” the Belgian boss said. “Gillingham has asked the question but it’s about Charlton.

MORE: Loaning forward to Cardiff was an 'easy' decision, says Fraeye

“We’ve got Naby Sarr and Patrick Bauer at centre-back but we haven’t got any back-up since Alou Diarra has played in midfielder and done a good job - having three centre-backs in the squad is minimum.

“He was there and got some games and we got a more experienced player now and this is why we sent him on loan, to get a better player back.

“The reason we brought him back is because we rate him as a quality defender.”

Lennon, a product of the Charlton Academy, has made two appearances for the Addicks since signing his first professional contract in July 2013.

Follow us on Twitter @NewsShopperSprt