Gilbey wanted Charlton deal done as soon as possible

Alex Gilbey said he was eager to get a deal with Charlton Athletic as soon as he heard there was interest from the London club.

The 25-year-old spent three seasons at MK Dons after arriving from Wigan in 2017. Making a little over 100 appearances and scoring 11 goals, Gilbey was a big part in Dons' recovery from the relegation scrap last season, earning a consecutive Player of the Year crown.

But when news of a potential bid from Charlton came to light, Gilbey admitted he was eager to leave Stadium MK for the club joining them in League One next season.

"It’s amazing to be here,” said Gilbey in his first interview with Charton. “I don’t need to be told how big of a club this is. As soon as I found out there was a bit of interest, I just wanted to get it done as soon as possible.

“The manager is a big pull. I really want to work for him, I’ve heard a lot of good things and I just can’t wait to get going now.

“I’m a high energy player, I like to get up and down and look to score as many goals as possible to just help the team as much as I can.”

In joining Charlton, Gilbey reunites with former Dons striker Chuks Aneke, who made the same move 12 months ago.

Charlton boss Lee Bowyer added: “I’m over the moon because we’ve brought in a very good player. He’ll bring us a lot of energy in the middle of the park, physicality and goals.

“He’s 25 which is a good age to work with and he’s already got a lot of games under his belt. He was a good player for MK Dons, so we’ll bring him into our environment, look to improve him as a player and make us a better side.”