Match Preview – Charlton Athletic vs Millwall
Today sees a feisty south London derby take place at The Valley as mid table Charlton entertain FA Cup semi-finalists Millwall.
Wednesday night’s 1-0 6th round replay win over Blackburn at Ewood Park has left lions fans dreaming that they may be able to emulate their cup final appearance of 2004 if they can negotiate their Wembley semi final against Premier League strugglers Wigan Athletic.
In terms of league form, Millwall have steadily dropped down the table in recent weeks, losing 5 of their last 6 league games. Many cite the departure of on loan striker Chris Wood to Leicester City as the protagonist of this slide of the table, with the New Zealand International remaining the lions top goal scorer.
Millwall will be without defender Mark Beevers for this game, who sits out through suspension. Kenny Jackett will however be able to call upon Jermaine Easter and Richard Chaplow, were were recruited on loan from Crystal Palace and Southampton respectively on Friday.
Charlton manager Chris Powell will looking to improve his side’s poor home form in today’s match. The Addicks have taken maximum points from just 4 home games this season and may have considered themselves potential play off outsiders had they been able to pick up more points in front of their own fans.
Last Saturday’s 1-0 victory away to Huddersfield Town was Charlton’s was their first win in four matches, with youngster Callum Harriott grabbing the decisive goal early on in the game.
Powell is able to welcome back talismanic joint top scorer Yann Kermorgant from suspension, having served his three game ban following his red card against Nottingham Forest. Charlton could also call upon experienced midfielder Mark Gower, signed on loan from Swansea on Thursday. Although, it is believed that this game may come too soon for Gower, who is lacking fitness.
Aaron SharpFollow @ajs26061988
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