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Former Gillingham striker Josh Parker tipped to improve his game away from Priestfield

Charlton boss Lee Bowyer is confident he can improve striker Josh Parker

The forward made a surprise move to the Addicks on transfer deadline day, agreeing to move there on a permanent deal from Gillingham.

Parker, 28, scored 16 goals in 79 league appearances for the Gills, having first moved to Priestfield two years ago.

Josh Parker spent two years at Priestfield Picture: Ady Kerry
Josh Parker spent two years at Priestfield Picture: Ady Kerry

“We’ll improve him for sure,” said Bowyer.

“I know he is going to bring hard work, I know he’s going to bring a physicality and he’s going to bring goals because we create chances.

“Our job now is to work with him on the training pitch and show him what we want because we’re different to where he has come from.

“He’s got qualities and we have to realise his qualities and use them to our strength and it will be fine.

"I’m sure he’ll come in and score goals, I have no doubt.”

Parker was out of contract in the summer and his final game for the Gills was in a disappointing 3-0 home loss to Walsall.

He was an unused substitute the following week in the FA Cup and not included in the squad against Accrington.

Gills boss Steve Lovell said: “I’d like to wish Josh all the best for his future career. He has been an excellent professional and we wish him every success at Charlton.”

Parker made his Charlton debut on Saturday as a second-half substitute at Fleetwood, a game his new team lost 1-0.

While Parker moved to SE7, the Gills also said goodbye to midfielder Navid Nasseri. His contract was terminated by mutual consent.

The 22-year-old has left the club for personal reasons and leaves having made just two league starts.

By leaving the Gills now he will be free to join another club, even though the transfer window has shut.

He said: “It’s been a difficult year but I felt this was the correct decision at this time of my career.”

Nasseri was out of contract in the summer and has rarely featured this season, making just four league appearances, all off the bench.

He joined the Gills a year ago, initially on a contract until the end of the season. He signed a new one-year deal in the summer.

His arrival at Priestfield came after a season at Swedish side Syrianksa. Previously he had been with Birmingham, Bury and Macclesfield.

Young striker Leroy Hlabi has also left the club. He was on a six-month pro deal at the Gills, signed in the summer, having completed his scholarship at the club.

Hlabi tweeted: “Just want the thank the Gills for giving me the opportunity and making me mature as a footballer and as a person.

“Who knows the future, I might return or might go on to do greater, but here’s a massive thank-you for the support you have given me.”

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