CHARLTON ATHLETIC have paid tribute to a life-long Addicks fan who tragically died after falling ill during their clash against Portsmouth.
Norman Barker was one of the most recognisable supporters on matchdays at The Valley after holding a season ticket for 35 years.
Barker required medical treatment just 12 minutes into Saturday’s Championship game and the players were brought off the pitch shortly after.
After 10 minutes of treatment, Barker was taken away on a stretcher and the game was abandoned. It was later revealed that Barker had sadly died in hospital.
Charlton have now released a lengthy tribute to Barker, who they called “a true beacon of the Addicks faithful” and said they would honour his memory before their game against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.
They said in a statement: “Charlton Athletic are devastated by the loss of one of its most loyal and recognisable faces, Norman Barker.
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“A true beacon of the Addicks faithful, home and away, Norman was affectionately known by fans as ‘Headphones Norm’ due to his distinctive look.
“Norman was a constant at every game up and down the country for 40 years, always supporting the Addicks through good times and bad with a smile on his face.
“Norman will be truly missed by all at Charlton Athletic and everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“Charlton Athletic will honour Norman’s life when the club host Middlesbrough at The Valley on Tuesday evening.
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“Further details on the tribute and how supporters can honour and celebrate Norman’s life will be shared in the next 24 hours.”
Barker had a huge impact on a number of supporters during his life and that was clear after a huge outpouring of emotion on social media following his death.
One fan wrote on X: “What a man. This bloke was Mr Charlton. Headphones Norm you will be missed at The Valley and away games. My thoughts are with your family and friends.”
Another called him “a life long Charlton fan and an outstanding member of their fan base”, adding: “He epitomised how to follow your football club.”
Portsmouth also paid tribute to Barker following his passing in a statement, saying: “Pompey are devastated to learn that the Charlton supporter taken ill at today’s game has passed away.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their family and friends at this difficult time.”
Barker recently spoke about his love of Charlton during an interview in 2020 and said the club was “like a magnet” to him.
Speaking as part of the Once an Addick campaign, he said: “Charlton…it’s a way of life for me. I never knew it existed until I moved down to the Woolwich area in September 1968.
“I’ve been sitting with the same people for over 20 years. It is like a second family – home from home. When there is a game on Saturday afternoon, I’ve got to be there. Those couple of hours we have up there, we have a laugh. It’s a magnet.”
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