Charlton’s defence has come in for a fair bit of criticism recently. The criticism is not entirely fair, had the team not squandered a host of chances, the defensive slips would not have been significant.

Jason Pearce played 70 minutes for the Under-23s on Monday, and is in contention for a place in the starting line-up for the game at MK Dons on Saturday.

Pearce has been sorely missed, not only for his playing abilities, but for his leadership skills too.

Pearce is a great organiser and a warrior. There have been far too‎ many players unmarked in the final third of the pitch recently. This would not have happened had Pearce been in the team.

Karl Robinson was critical of what he perceived to be an over physical approach by Bradford City on Tuesday. Pearce will certainly add a physical edge to the Addicks’ back line.

Robinson also lacks a genuine midfield enforcer. League One is a tough division, and clubs have to get the balance between skill and physicality right if they are to be successful.

Many of the late goals Charlton have conceded recently have come from right-wing crosses. Robinson’s favoured 4-2-3-1 system does allow the opposition space down the flanks to exploit.

Jay Dasilva does not get the protection that Mark Marshall gives Chris Solly, and the left flank has been targeted by a number of opposition clubs.

Lewis Page is another who could be in contention for Saturday’s game. Page is a more defence minded full-back than Dasilva, and could be used to play behind the Chelsea loanee late on in games.

Naby Sarr has recovered from a hamstring injury, and is available for Saturday’s game.

Stephy Mavididi is back at Arsenal for the initial part of his recovery programme, but will return to Sparrows Lane when he is fit enough to run.

He could be sidelined for up to eight weeks, though Robinson will be hoping to have him available again next month.