Championship
Charlton Look The Cream Of Championship CropHad Alan Pardew been at the helm of Charlton Athletic a month or so earlier, then there has to be a fair chance that the Addicks wouldn't find themselves preparing for the Coca-Cola Championship next term.
Unfortunately, the reality is that Pardew is having to try and juggle the demands of building a squad capable of promotion, with those of balancing the books following relegation from the riches of the Premiership.
Already a number of big earners have departed, as have loan signings such as Scott Carson and Alexandre Song. It is also only a matter of time before Darren Bent departs, while it would also be a surprise were Luke Young to pull on a Charlton shirt again next season.
To his credit, Pardew has been quick to strengthen his squad in preparation for next season, with Crewe Alexandra’s Luke Varney and Colchester United’s Chris Iwelumo coming in to bolster Charlton's striking options and Paddy McCarthy (Leicester City), Yassin Moutaouakil (Chateauroux) and Jose Semedo (Sporting Lisbon) strengthening the defence.
Once Bent departs there will no doubt be further signings, with an additional quality forward, a new goalkeeper and greater competition in midfield probably being the areas of most concern.
With over 16,000 season tickets sold before the end of the last campaign, a reputation for developing talented youngsters (Darren Randolph and Osei Sankofa both look good prospects) and Pardew’s experience in the Championship, Charlton look to be capable of making a concerted bid for a swift return to the Premiership.
Betandgame's offer of 8-1 on Charlton for the Championship looks like a decent price for a club that seems to be going places again.
Bet Advised: Tuesday 26th June 2007
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