FORMER Charlton captain Graham Stuart has told News Shopper the possible takeover of the club by Zabeel Investment should not place a question mark over the future of manager Alan Pardew.

The Dubai-based company has already made an offer for the Addicks and the club’s board have indicated they would like to accept it.

If the deal goes through, Pardew can expect to be handed a huge cash boost to regain the Premiership status lost in 2007.

However, the Valley chief will be only too aware a new foreign regime has its pitfalls after he lost his previous job at West Ham shortly after they were taken over by Icelandic owners.

Stuart said: “I don’t think there will be any new pressure on Alan if this all goes through.

“The pressure for Alan is making sure Charlton get results on the pitch and get out of this division.

“I’m sure he is a bit sceptical deep down after what happened to him at West Ham because he has been in this situation before.

“But I’m also certain he will relish the chance to get his hands on some funds and build a squad which can gain promotion.”

Stuart was a key figure for a large part of Charlton’s successful seven-year spell in the Premiership and hopes the takeover will see the good times return to SE7.

He explained: “These are certainly exciting times for everyone associated with Charlton and potentially it could restore the club back to where they were not so long ago.

“I was fortunate to play there when we were doing well in the Premier League in front of full houses at The Valley and the place was buzzing.

“They were great times and the supporters are desperate for them to return.

“If Alan is given money to spend from this investment then there is no reason why Charlton can not re-establish themselves in the Premiership.”

The Addicks are the latest in a growing list of English clubs to attract foreign investors and Stuart welcomes their involvement.

He said: “Football is such a huge industry these days. You’ve got these consortiums pouring huge amounts of money in and they see it as an opportunity to get involved in something they love at the same time.

“I’ve heard it said they use football as a toy, but they are serious businessmen and don’t get involved just for that in my view.

“There are huge riches there if a club becomes successful in the Premiership.

“Perhaps this is why people are looking at Championship clubs with the potential to get up there like Charlton.

“The fact they are a London side as well is also obviously a massive bonus because their location makes them much more appealing.”