Dean Holden, who was fired last month after the Addicks lost four of their first five League One games, has been replaced by the 47-year-old, who has signed a two-year contract with the Valley.
Appleton hadn’t had a job since being fired from Blackpool in January, but Charlton relied heavily on his third-tier expertise when making its choice.
In 2016, he guided Oxford United to promotion, and in 2021, he guided Lincoln City to the play-off final, an accomplishment applauded by Addicks technical director Andy Scott.
“Michael’s appointment follows a thorough recruitment procedure. We were very clear about the kind of individual we wanted, their style of work, and management style,” he said.
“Michael made it very evident while speaking to the numerous candidates we met that he would be able to take the current group and shape them into a successful team.He is aware of the high standards needed to prevail because he has experience working at the highest level. He has a winning attitude, is a leader on the field and in the locker room, and has had many positive and negative managerial experiences that have helped him develop into the coach we think will be the ideal fit for the position.
Despite the uncertainty off the field, Appleton, Charlton’s seventh different manager in two and a half years, is confident he can turn things around.
I am honored to be selected the head coach of this illustrious and illustrious football club, and I want to thank James Rodwell and Andy Scott, the club’s owners, for having faith in me to guide the team.
“I’ll do all in my power to make the Charlton Athletic Football Club successful. We will all need to collaborate to do this; players, staff, and supporters all have important roles to play.
“I am eager to get going. I want us to have a team that motivates us all, never quits, and always plays aggressively. My players should love playing for one another, feel free to express themselves, and feel at ease playing the way we do. Starting right away, we aim to cultivate a winning mentality.
“Achievements take time because this is a strong division, but work has already started to get this club to the heights that you, the fans, and this division deserve. Nothing will be seen as a given. If we are to succeed, we must all put in more effort and adhere to a teamwork attitude.