Charlton entertain Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday in the second game of the usual busy Xmas period
No Charlton fan will need reminding that Wednesday boast two Southern European ex Addicks from Charlton's unhappy Championship era, Miguel Llera and Jose Semedo in their starting lineup.
They also boast a decent enough away record often getting the odd goal while restricting the home team, and lately have drawn at Blackburn, won at Watford. They have drawn 9 only equalled by 5th placed Forest. They have scored a few more than Charlton but also conceded a few more. However that is where the good news for Wednesday'ites ends. They are currently 3rd from bottom in a very tight mini league at the bottom on 18, above Yeovill on 17 and Barnsley on 16. In the other direction are Doncaster 19, Millwall 21 and Charlton on 22, then a jump to Birmingham on 25.
Charlton are now close to having a fully fit squad and a decent choice of first 11 with only Cort still out, but Jackson returning from his red card ban. Boxing days win saw the classy Solly appear more than back to the required level, ditto Richard Wood. Yann Kermogant has begun to hit form once more, as has this seasons surprise so far Wilson (who may or may not be amused at his new song which makes reference to that turnaround..).
What remains is a bit of selection headache for Chris Powell. Cedric Evina also made an athletic cameo and may fill in for Wiggins to ease the heavy festive workload, or may be added on the left side in front. Stewart should play the last game of his current loan, which many will hope will be renewed, Sordell on the other hand may be another matter.
Also in the wings and perhaps on the bench will be loan AFC Wimbledon returnee forward Michael Smith, and youth product striker Joe Piggot who may both get a chance to influence their immediate futures. Powell may opt to start returning Jackson in the hole to give Church a break, perhaps with some pacey wide men to breach the draw specialists lines. Expect the rest to remain as was.
Elsewhere takeover talk seems to have hit new heights today when reference to a Belgian bid was made on the official site - read more here. Hopefully an incentive to the players to twinkle in the Christmas gloom tomorrow.
BR