Two Plymouth Argyle Links as Charlton Athletic Target Championship Promotion
As Charlton Athletic prepare for their crucial League One Play-Off Final against Leyton Orient at Wembley this weekend, there will be a strong Plymouth Argyle connection in their defensive line. Central defenders Macaulay Gillesphey and Lloyd Jones — both with ties to Argyle — are set to play key roles in the South London club’s push for promotion to the Championship.
Macaulay Gillesphey, a familiar name to the Green Army, was part of the Plymouth Argyle squad that won promotion from League One in the 2022/23 season. Now 29, the left-footed centre-back has become an integral part of Charlton’s backline since joining the Addicks. His experience, composure, and aerial strength have been instrumental in helping Dean Holden’s side navigate a successful play-off run so far.
Gillesphey started both legs of the play-off semi-final against Wycombe Wanderers, forming a solid central partnership with Lloyd Jones. Charlton managed to keep two clean sheets across the ties, winning the second leg 1-0 at The Valley after a goalless draw in the first match. Their defensive resilience has been a foundation for the team’s momentum going into Sunday’s final.
Lloyd Jones, meanwhile, is another name with a strong Plymouth connection. Born in the city, the 28-year-old came through the youth ranks at Liverpool but spent time on loan at Argyle earlier in his career. Although his spell at Home Park was brief, he remains a player well-known to Plymouth fans. Since joining Charlton, Jones has established himself as a reliable and commanding figure at the heart of their defence.
The duo’s presence has created a narrative of familiarity for Plymouth supporters, who will remember Gillesphey’s contributions during the promotion-winning 2022/23 campaign, particularly under the guidance of former manager Steven Schumacher. Gillesphey featured regularly in a side that played a progressive, attacking brand of football while maintaining a strong defensive record. His experience from that successful season could prove vital as Charlton prepare to take on Leyton Orient in what promises to be a tightly contested final.
Charlton’s turnaround this season has been impressive, especially in the latter half of the campaign, with consistent performances pushing them into the play-off spots. Under Dean Holden’s leadership, the Addicks have found form and stability, with their defence — marshalled by Gillesphey and Jones — a key part of that success.
Now, the duo will look to replicate the promotion success they have previously tasted. For Gillesphey, it could be a second trip to the Championship in just three seasons. For Jones, it’s a chance to prove himself on one of the biggest stages in English football’s lower leagues, and perhaps earn a return to the second tier.
Plymouth Argyle may no longer have Gillesphey and Jones in their ranks, but their influence and pedigree will be on full display at Wembley. With Championship football the prize, the former and Plymouth-born defenders will aim to rise to the occasion and deliver yet another promotion moment — this time in Charlton colours.
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