Charlton’s opening fixture at Welling was a comfortable work out Chris Powell’s team and – international defender that he was, the clean sheet pleased him:

“It’s a traditional curtain-raiser for us and Welling and a good turnout by our supporters as always.

I’m really pleased we could give them some goals and a clean sheet, which I always love.

“It was a good workout for them. The players have worked really hard this week and it’s always good to get out on the pitch and play against opposition, no matter what you do in training. It’s always about the games.

“It was a good first half and second half – with the goals – and we move on now to Spain,” said Chris, who went on to explain the reason for experimenting with a 4-3-3 formation in the second half.

“You can’t look too much into it because it is an extension of training. Forty five minutes is like a training session, but in a game situation.

“It’s good to see a few of the young players – Jordan Cousins and Callum Harriott – playing alongside the senior boys. Ruben Bover made an impression and looked good again alongside Bradley Pritchard.

“Yann and Brad up top could have scored goals in that first period, when we were strong down the centre with Matt Taylor and Leon Cort. Then we blooded Nick Pope, which is good for him and his development.

“In the second half we had Jacko leading them out and played a different formation with 4-3-3, and it’s good to be adaptable.

“I think this year we are going to have to be like that. We very rarely changed our system last year, but we feel with going up into the Championship that we are going to have to adapt, play differently, make sure we use the ball right and that the players know their role and responsibilities in whatever formation we play.

“I’m really happy with all the lads. There are no injuries as far as I’m aware and we go to Spain in good heart. I’m really pleased.”

Powell has intimated that John Sullivan could go out on loan and, with that in mind, Spanish trialist Jacobo Sanz Overjero was in goal for the second half. Powell summed up the situation:

“We know about him (Sanz Overjero) through Ben.

“He’s come to our attention through various people. We checked him out beforehand, where he has played, and he has good experience. He was in Greece last year and we’ve had a look at him this week and felt it was right to give him a half.

“John (Sullivan) was excellent for us last year and played a few games but we want John to play regularly and we’re hoping something might happen there for him. He’s still our keeper and is coming out to Spain, but long-term we’d like him to get some game time.”

It sounds as though the Addicks are working on a possible transfer or a season long loan for Sullivan, so an experienced deputy for Ben Hamer will be required.