Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman has defended Katrien Meire, stating that the Charlton chief executive is doing all she can for the club in “difficult circumstances”.

Goodman, who scored over 150 goals during his career, met CEO Meire before Charlton’s Championship match against Ipswich two weeks ago.

Meire has endured a strained relationship with Addicks supporters since arriving in south east London last January, but Goodman insists the Belgian is determined to succeed at the Valley and turn the club’s fortunes around.

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“I met Katrien at the Valley before the Ipswich game and I know she’s been in for a lot of flak because she’s the face of the owner and faces up to the fans,” the 49-year-old told News Shopper.

“But I can tell everybody that having met her, she wants to do the best she can for Charlton in very difficult circumstances – that much was clear.

“I don’t know if that will be reassuring for Charlton fans or not but that’s the way I left her company.”

Goodman, who was Sky Sports’ co-commentator during the 3-0 defeat to Ipswich, insisted that Meire cares passionately about the club and understands the frustration amongst fans.

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The former West Brom, Sunderland and Wolves striker added: “I left thinking Katrien really cares passionately and wants to get this right.

“Obviously she’s feeling the strain and understands what a task the club face, but her determination was clear and encouraging.

“She’s feeling the pain of the team’s performances just like the fans are.

“She certainly understands their frustration, that’s the impression I got anyway.”

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