In a day of feverish activity behind the scenes, Charlton signed two new players and arranged another friendly on Monday.

The first to arrive was former Sunderland frontman Jordan Cook who impressed during his time on loan at Carlisle last season. Cook plundered four goals during six games with the Cumbrians and also made three appearances for th Black Cats.

The 22-year-old has penned a two year deal with the Addicks and can operate on the flanks and play off the main striker as well as being an out-and-out attacker. Here’s what Chris Powell had to say about Cook:

“Jordan first came to our attention a couple of seasons back. In my first six months here, he was on loan at Walsall and gave us a few problems.

“You take notice of players, and then we saw him in a few games last year for Carlisle and also for Sunderland.

“He’s a young player who we feel can play down the middle, behind the main striker and out wide. He’s a utility attacker, as such, but we just think for the age he’s at, he’s worth bringing in and developing.

“He played exceptionally well for Carlisle against us in the game that ultimately won us promotion,” added Chris.

“He did some good things in that game, which I have watched again on DVD, and I feel he will supplement the group. He’s one that we feel could develop into a very good player.”

As expected, another versatile player, Lawrie Wilson, completed his switch back to The Valley. Powell had this to say about his latest acquisition:

“I tracked Lawrie throughout last season and watched how well not only he did, but how well Stevenage did.

“I know he’s played a lot at right midfield, but I see him as a right-back to challenge Chris (Solly) and he comes into the mix.
“Last season, I didn’t have another right-back  and we used Andy Hughes and Michael Morrison as cover there. But I’ve always said that I want two in each position if I can  and I want specialists if I can and that is how I see Lawrie.

“He is adaptable  though and he can play further up. Last year, when we beat Stevenage at home, he played behind the front man.

“He brings us good quality and he’s most probably looked at us and our progression and what we’ve done on the field last year and thought I’d like to be part of that, moving into the Championship.”

Peterborough also fancied the 24-year-old but the Addicks were always thought to be his preferred option. The transfer fee was not disclosed but Wilson has signed a three year deal.

Both players meet Powell’s criteria as young, hungry players. They might not ne the household names some were hoping for but the duo are solid players who will help Charlton consolidate in the Championship.

I’m the most difficult pre-season on record, the club managed to arrange another game in the warm up schedule.

The game against Barnet at Underhill will now go ahead on Thursday 26 July with an 8.00pm kick-off.

The news of the new signings and the Barnet match will have been a fillip for all concerned on the day the pre-season training began in earnest.