As often seems to be the case, the international break came at the wrong time for the Addicks as we anticipated following up on the Crewe win with another. However, the surprise addition of left-back Pape Souare and back-up keeper Stephen Henderson means we finally have a near full playing complement and decent strength from the bench. The expectations are that we will be too strong for newly promoted Cheltenham.
Thomas Sandgaard & Co will allow themselves a wry smile of satisfaction having turned the recruitment corner, and they were probably never in much doubt understanding their budget and likely target options. For me, I still think we are light upfront but those additional options in midfield with Lee and Arter should add goals and real competition. I have to hope that Jayden Stockley remains available. The debate over waiting until the end of the transfer window before completing your team will also have to wait but pray we don't miss out closely again this season.
Three points on Saturday will move us up the table and with a night game at Gillingham in hand, we might be able to begin to forget the miserable start to the season. It would also help build home confidence following the opening draw and subsequent defeat to Wigan. It should be said though, that just because you have never faced your opponents in a league fixture before doesn't hand you the victory. Given our record in these games, we should know that more than most. First and foremost we have to show them respect as Champions of League Two and our players must work to match them and then beat them. I think we have enough to do it but it's not a 'gimme' by any stretch of the imagination.
I would also like to see Nigel Adkins play his part by getting his players really playing for him and making good tactical changes as and when needed. Neither of which I believe we have seen clearly so far this season.
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