‘Interesting’ – Charlton boss Dean Holden’s assessment on Good Friday opponents Bristol Rovers

Charlton Athletic manager Dean Holden is expecting a tough challenge at Bristol Rovers on Good Friday.

The Addicks come into the League One match off the back of a 6-0 demolition of Shrewsbury Town last weekend.

Holden, 43, had a spell in charge of Bristol City after previously assisting Lee Johnson.

The Gas have not played since a 2-0 defeat to Portsmouth on March 18.

“You always know what type of game you’re going to get from Joey Barton’s teams,” Holden told the South London Press.

“They have had an up and down season. They’ve had spells where they had a good run and then they have changed the team around a little bit, in terms of shape.

“They haven’t played for three weeks, I think that’s interesting. They had the international break and then they didn’t play at the weekend because of the Papa John’s [Trophy]. It will be interesting to see how they’ve managed that time away.

“For us, we know where their strengths are. The standout player for them – [Aaron] Collins, he’s had a really good season in terms of his numbers, goals and chances created.

“It will be a tough game. I know what Joey Barton and his staff are all about. I know them really well. You can always expect a tough game, full of commitment, but we’re in a good moment. There will be no question whatsover of getting above our station (after the Shrewsbury result) – purely because of where we are in the league ourselves – we’ve still got points to play for and a position in the table we want to try and get to.

“It’s a great weekend – six points available over the space of four days. I’ve always enjoyed the Easter weekend in the football calendar, even more so now the weather is changing a little bit now. There is plenty for us to play for, I’m sure.”

PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS