Alan Pardew has broken his silence on Charlton’s proposed take-over by mega wealthy Dubai-based Zabeel Holdings and disclosed that the mood of the club has been lifted.

Though bankers Rothschild insist the club say nothing while a two-week period of due diligence is observed, the Addicks boss confessed: "The players have been buoyed by the news.

"And I’m bound to say they’ve all looked very sharp in training this week. There is no ban on the players talking about it in the dressing room because when this kind of thing happens you can’t stop people talking."

Asked if he regarded the news as a boost for the club’s supporters, he added: “From what I’ve heard there is a lot of excitement among our fans.

"Since we were relegated from the Premier League, Charlton fans have seen a number of key players leave the club. So news that there could be investment will excite them, that’s only natural.

"I have no idea what the situation will be when the January transfer window opens but I experienced something similar at West Ham when Kia Joorabchian came in and attempted to take over the club.

"So you have to keep an open mind. From my point of view I must focus on my staff, my players and concentrate on the job in hand."