Charlton Athletic manager Bowyer sets points total needed to secure Championship status for next season

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Lee Bowyer reckons Charlton Athletic will clinch Championship safety if they amass 47 points.

It means the Addicks need 14 points from their remaining 15 matches to hit the target set by their manager.

Charlton have not won away from home since August 31 and head to third-placed Nottingham Forest tonight.

The Addicks are one spot above the relegation zone but have a four-point cushion over Wigan as well as a significantly superior goal difference.

“We’re in a situation we don’t want to be in – but we have to recognise that we are,” said Bowyer.

“I think four wins and two draws will be enough.

“I think 47 points will put you safe, so we have to win at least four games. Our home matches are going to be really important but we’re going to go to places we can win as well.

“There’s no reason we can’t go there [Forest] and win. I believe we can go into any game and surprise teams.

“We went to Blackburn at the start of the season and won – no-one thought we’d do that – and it was the same at Reading. On our day we’re a good side.

“We had a disappointing result at the weekend [losing 3-1 at Stoke] but that is gone now.

“We have to focus on the next one – and that’s Forest.”