Lee Bowyer will soon be boosted by the return of four senior stars.
Experienced striker, Igor Vetokele, returned to training on Monday after picking up a foot injury in the pre-season game at Welling last month.
The Angolan had impressed Bowyer since his return to The Valley, and if he remains fit, he could be the perfect partner for Lyle Taylor.
It is even possible Vetokele could be on the bench on Saturday.
Three more players – Tariqe Fosu, Jason Pearce and Ben Reeves – will return to full training on Monday.
The creativity that Fosu provides has been sorely missed. Fosu was injured at the end of last season, but was rushed back for the play-off games with Shrewsbury.
Fosu can score as well as create goals, and though he will do it gradually, Bowyer will want him integrated back in the squad as soon as possible.
Pearce injured the medial ligament in his left knee towards the end of the game against Sunderland at the beginning of the month.
Pearce’s leadership and organisational skills at the back are as important as his contribution as a player.
The player believes he is ready to return against Fleetwood this weekend.
Ben Reeves had a stop-start campaign last season after missing pre-season training. Hopefully, he will have an injury free campaign this time around.
The Valley faithful have never really seen the best of Reeves, but he has the ability to be a top player at League One level.
The return of the quartet will massively increase Bowyer’s options, though he will have to wait until October before Billy Clarke is fit enough to come into contention.
The loss of midfield general, Jake Forster-Caskey, for the season was a massive blow, but Bowyer is still hoping to add another couple of players to his squad before the loan window closes at the end of the month.
Hopefully, the Addicks will have better luck with injuries this time round. If they do, Bowyer will soon have a decent squad at his disposal.
TAGS: Charlton Athletic