Former Charlton player, Theo Foley took charge at the club during the 1970-71 season, however the club could not do the amazing up turn they had hoped for and were involved in another relegation fight for the second consecutive season. They finished the campaign off in 20th place, narrowly avoiding relegation. Everything turned sour for the club the following season as they were punished for their poor league performances which in turn demoted the club to the third tier of English football, finishing the season off in 21st place. No consolation was awarded in the cup competitions, suffering third round exits in both tournaments. The only bright point of the season came from the up rise of their new young talent, Mike Flanagan, who was instrumental up front for the club.
The addicks first season in the third tier of football for the first time in 38 years was uneventful. They were made to look very ordinary against weak opposition. It came to no surprise when the Addicks finished the campaign off in an unacceptable 11th place. The team’s hearts were hardened even further after a 4-0 battering in the third round of the FA cup against Bolton.
Andy Nelson took charge at the club for the start of the 74-75 campaign and his first term in charge saw a further decline in Athletic’s fortunes. They terminated the season off in an unacceptable 14th place, now struggling in the third tier of English football. Nelson and Charlton knew a huge improvement was vital for the 1974-75 campaign and the response was immediate. The Addicks, to their credit, were a force in the third division during the 74-75 campaign, dominating the tier and earning a much needed 3rd place finish, in turn promoting the club to the second division.