‘Beautiful’ – Charlton Athletic striker explains why first goal of season was so sweet

Chuks Aneke has described marking his return to action with a goal as a “beautiful” moment.

The Addicks striker had not played since picking up a calf injury in July.

But Aneke, 29, only needed two minutes on the pitch to open his account for the season in Tuesday’s 4-2 victory over Exeter City.

It was his 54th goal in 177 League One matches.

“It was beautiful, definitely beautiful,” said Aneke, who rejoined the Addicks from Birmingham City in January.

“I got a nice reception when I warmed up on the side as well. It’s one of the amazing things about being a footballer, the interaction with the fans.

“I’d been out for a while. It’s good to come back and repay my team-mates and repay the fans. This is what my job is, and I’ve done it today.

“It’s definitely special, but scoring goals generally is one of the greatest feelings. I relish it, especially for the fans. It was a big goal as well, making it 3-1.

“I was nearly back and then I got re-injured.

“It’s a long mental battle, not only a physical battle. But we draw a line under it and we move forward.

“I want to help the team turn those draws into wins.

“I like to feel I repaid the faith he [Ben Garner, manager] had in waiting for me to get back.

“When I’m not playing and not fit there is nothing I can do about it [helping the team, and that’s definitely frustrating.

“We have got a good nucleus here – we’ve got something good here – and we’ve got to turn those draws into wins.

“I’m hopeful and positive for the next couple of games.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD