BEN THATCHER believes manager Alan Pardew has what it takes to complete Charlton's great escape.

The left-back offered an insight into why he puts Pardew on a pedestal with the best he has played under.

Thatcher said: "I’ve played for some great managers, people like Glenn Hoddle, George Graham, Kevin Keegan, Joe Kinnear, guys like that.

"But for me, Alan has that little bit of banter which helps him keep close to the players while also having the fear factor, which helps him keep his distance.

"He’s great at getting the most from his players and also getting his message across."

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