DUNFERMLINE Athletic have confirmed the departure of "consummate professional" Josh Edwards as the player sealed a move to Charlton Athletic.

After months of speculation the talented full back has joined Nathan Jones' EFL League One side for an undisclosed fee, thought to be almost six figures, after five years in black and white.

He completed a medical in London on Monday and the deal was confirmed this morning. 

Arriving from Airdrie in July 2019, Edwards went on to make 182 appearances, scoring 10 goals, and played in all but 11 minutes of Dunfermline's 36 league matches last season.

A statement put out by the club said: "Josh has been the consummate professional during his time at the Pars and leaves the club with the best wishes of everyone at KDM Group East End Park.

"All the best Josh."

READ MORE: EFL clubs credited with interest in Josh Edwards

Speaking to the Press, Dunfermline boss James McPake admitted it was "gutting" to see Edwards go but said he was delighted to see him move on in his career.

"He has been different class for me since the minute I walked in the door. Last season he missed 11 minutes as a precaution when we were 3-0 up at the time against Dundee United," he said.

All the best Josh on your move to @CAFCofficial

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"It is a good move for him career wise and financially. It is gutting to lose him because he has been so good. We are also realistic enough to know when a team in England like Charlton come in for you, it is hard to knock that back. We thank him for everything he has done."

The full back attracted interest from English club Barnsley midway through last season however Dunfermline knocked back their offer.

"That's not easy when you have got the option to go to Barnsley and get to England which was Josh's ambition. I have seen players before when moves have not happened – I was a player long enough myself.

READ MORE: Dunfermline Athletic announce East End Park open day

"Fair play to Josh – he never spat the dummy out. He trained every day, nothing really changed in terms of his attitude. He was still different class for us. That is why we wish him all the best.

"We know how difficult it is going to be to replace him but we want to see our younger players develop and move on. Over two years, Josh has certainly done that. He done a lot of work with Dave McKay and we are delighted for him although we are sad to see him go.

"He is not only a great player but a good guy around the place.

"He has been fantastic for me since the minute I walked in the door and is a great lad to work with. I am genuinely delighted or him."

In a video on Dunfermline Athletic's website, Edwards said: "I just want to thank you all for the support that I have had over the last five years. It has been incredible and I have loved every minute at the club. 

"I will be making sure to keep updated with the club and I will be keeping a keen eye on the boys to see how they get on this season.

"Thanks again for your support and I wish everybody associated with the club all the very best."