Preview: Charlton v Barnsley

By Rob Virtue on October 31, 2008 2:48 PM |

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Barnsley will come to The Valley on Saturday for what promises to be an important game in Charlton's season.

Both sides are struggling for points at the wrong end of the table and need a win to get them back in the hunt for play-off positions.

Two recent draws for the Addicks could signal an important upturn in fortunes but only a win against Barnsley will do for the demanding home fans.

Like the last home match against Burnley which included Josh Wright and Izale McLeod, Saturday's line-up could include one or two surprises.

Manager Alan Pardew said: "There's no-one who can justify knocking on my door at the minute saying they should be in this team apart from the ones who are playing every week - Weaver, Hudson, Cranie at the minute, and Bailey.

"Outside of that I could chose any one of 20 who could be in my first team squad."

Linvoy Primus didn't complete training on Thursday so it looks as if Mark Hudson and Martin Cranie will be the centre-back pairing.

Jose Semedo and Yassin Moutaouakil will be battle it out for right-back, while Kelly Youga and Grant Basey will similarly compete for the left-back slot.

In midfield, Nicky Bailey could be partnered with Matt Holland or Wright, although Jonjo Shelvey is also available following England under-17 duties.

Up front, Andy Gray has an ongoing personal issue which may keep him out of the side again, meaning Svetoslav Todorov and Luke Varney will probably start, although Chris Dickson continues to push for a role.

Tickets are £15 for adults and just £1 for under 18s. Call 0871 226 1905.

Kick off: 3pm.

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