CHARLTON are set to raise their profile on the other side of the world with the signing of an agreement with Auckland-based New Zealand Knights.

The deal, due to be signed on Thursday, will allow Charlton exclusive access to the cream of the Knights' young talent with a view to providing their academy with further opportunities, plus first choice of the club's senior players.

Knights' chairman Anthony Lee and New Zealand FA chief executive Graham Seatter will sign the four-year deal, which can be reviewed after 12 months. The Knights are preparing for their inaugural season in the Hyundai A-League.

Charlton chief executive Peter Varney said: "This is an exciting partnership for both clubs. The establishment of academies in New Zealand by the Knights will be done with the full backing of our own academy professionals.

"The large numbers of New Zealanders who have access to UK passports presents a real opportunity for us to attract New Zealand players to Charlton."

The Knights, who are managed by former New Zealand national team boss John Adshead, include ex-Sittingbourne and Tonbridge player Neil Emblen who went on to play for Wolves and Crystal Palace.