Charlton took several of their youngsters to their Spanish training camp. Team bonding – as well as improving fitness – is the reason for these overseas camps.
It gives Lee Bowyer the opportunity to see if the young lads can make the transition to bond with the senior pros in a different environment.
The one who is best known to fans is 19-year-old Albie Morgan. Morgan impressed when he made the breakthrough to the first team last season.
Not afraid to take responsibility, he bossed some games from midfield, and had a fine game at Doncaster in the first leg of the play-off semi-final.
But youngsters are naturally erratic, it is part of learning the game, and Morgan’s lack of experienced was exposed when Doncaster came to The Valley for the second leg.
Bowyer replaced him with Darren Pratley at half-time, and Pratley’s experience was pivotal in securing the Addicks a place at Wembley.
Bowyer is an ideal manager for a precocious talent like Morgan. He was a teenage sensation himself and will be able to help, guide, encourage and improve the youngster. He will also ensure his feet stay firmly planted on the ground.
The manager shared these thoughts on his young player from the squad’s Spanish base:
”In possession, they’ve (the youngsters in the squad) done very well. Obviously Albie, we all know all about him technically.
There’s parts of his game he needs to improve on and again, I speak to them all the time.”
As well as Morgan, fellow midfielder Alfie Doughty, defender Brendan Sarpong-Wiredu and keeper, Ashley Maynard-Brewer made the trip to Marbella.
It was a terrific experience for them.
For Morgan, the forthcoming season will be doubly difficult. As well as now being known by opponents, he will have to operate at a higher level.
The Championship is a tough, tough league, littered with big clubs and quality players.
But Morgan has had a taste of first team football and is hungry for more. And he has the talent and determination to succeed.
TAGS: Charlton Athletc