Charlton fans face the prospect of two extreme journeys next season. It is a 500 mile round trip to Plymouth’s Home Park from The Valley.

The Addicks suffered their first defeat of the season in Devon back in August. Karl Robinson’s side got off to a winning start against Bristol Rovers at The Valley in the season’s opener, despite the early dismissal of Lee Novak.

Three days later, they beat Exeter 2-1 at St James Park in the Carabao‎ Cup. Again, the south Londoners finished with ten men after Andrew Crofts was sent off.

But Charlton were not so fortunate on their return to Devon four days later. Two Jake Jervis goals won the game for Argyle – their only victory in their first 14 league games.

‎The Stadium of Light is an even longer trek, the round trip from The Valley is more than 560 miles.

The last time Charlton played the Black Cats was in the 2005/6 season. Alan Curbishley’s side travelled north for the first game of the season, and returned with all three points.

Darren Bent scored twice on his debut, with Danny Murphy also scoring in the 3-1 victory. The Addicks played the last 35 minutes with ten men following Darren Ambrose’s red card.

Charlton were fortunate to play Plymouth on a sunny afternoon this season. Their travelling fans will be keeping their fingers crossed for similar fortune this time around.

Cold, wet and windy conditions are the last thing they need after marathon journeys to the South West or North East.

Another journey fans would prefer to make in spring or autumn is ‎the visit to Accrington. The Wham Stadium has had more than its fair share of postponements in the winter months.

And most off all, ‎those planning to attend these games, will be hoping they will be scheduled for a Saturday, not midweek.