Andy Hughes has told Charlton: Pull out all the stops to keep Jose Riga.
There is uncertainty over who will be in charge of the South Londoners next season as the head coach only arrived on a short-term deal.
And even though Riga did his job - keeping the Addicks in the Championship - he has still not been confirmed as taking the helm in the future.
Hughes has warned that Charlton run the risk of losing key players - and also failing to attract them - if they do not move quickly in filling the role.
He said: “Charlton have still not named a manager and they need to get that nailed down - they are going to miss out on players and existing players. For me Jose Riga is the number one choice. The players like him, the staff like him and he likes the club and area - and he has got a feel for Championship football now, he knows what it takes.The players and staff want him to stay. They need to do what it takes to keep him here. It is vitally important that Roland Duchatelet employs someone this week. They are going to miss recruitment. Other clubs are moving on players. They are missing out. I don't understand the time taken, why is it so long?
They need to appoint Jose Riga as quick as they can. I don't understand why they are even contemplating bringing another coach in. Jose Riga came in when the club was in a tough position and he managed the situation well."