Chris Powell's men dragged the agenda back to the playing squad on Tuesday, and indeed his management ability
Is something happening in SE7?
Many top players and Manager soon to be out of contract, yet Chris Powell has given enormous spenders and Harry Rednapp a run for their money (admittedly getting nil points however) over at the rather tight fitting Loftus Road. Tuesday night saw this followed by a replay of the somewhat controversial rained off game in hand match at the Valley to Doncaster.
With Hamer the only change due to a nasty sounding ligament strain in the warm up and replaced by new boy Alnwick sporting some lookey likey facial growth - the Addicks seemed comfortable, and free flowing - almost like the Rangers' match had raised the bar a notch.
Doncaster seemed like Charlton had a few weeks ago a lot of huff an puff and no end product. It did look to be one of those nights, when Charlton created a number of very decent chances, but it took a sublime effort from quite some distance by Stephens that will more than likely win a few competitions at some stage to open things up.
The opposition never really looked like scoring despite getting up the pitch. Simon Church then found himself in a great position to run on goal after being picked out, he then showed good strength and finishing to achieve a great goal for his collection and a second for the Reds. Stewart also seemed determined to grab one for himself but was denied somehow by the keeper and the bar, and it could easily have been double the tally on the night.
What seems to be emerging here is that Powell may have his hands on a very capable midfield at this level. Cousins is rumoured to be attracting top level interest at a young age in with a combination of youthful energy and an older head, giving Stephens the freedom to express himself more. Add to that the special something that a fit Jackson can give to the side, and Stewart's huge hunger, and indeed there may be something special developing. Charlton seem to have a flow and increasing team cohesion which could carry them on a decent run up the table if all goes well.
Powell could probably benefit from a return of Wood, and the fitness of Kermogant or indeed a good loan for either or both position if the former aren't possible. It would be really nice to see a certain Mr Solly recover from injury to help us through the busy Christmas thing too.
With eyes on Thursday's loan window closure, a couple of youth players in the form of Bradley Jordan and Morgan Fox have left on loan to Notts Count today, perhaps leaving the budget free for a senior man tonight?
TN