Deji Oshilaja had been knocking on my door and asking for his chance – Charlton manager Lee Bowyer
BY LOUIS MENDEZ
Deji Oshilaja has been banging on Lee Bowyer’s door and asking for his chance – and the Addicks boss is delighted to see his centre-half taking it with both hands.
The former AFC Wimbledon man had to wait patiently for his turn in the heart of the Addicks defence, further down the pecking order than Akin Famewo, Ryan Inniss and even defensive midfielder Darren Pratley.
But injuries and suspensions to those ahead of him saw him given an opportunity against Accrington Stanley last month and the 27 year old has kept his place since – starting the last eight Addicks fixtures and topping them off with his first goal for the club during the 2-0 win at Rochdale.
Lee Bowyer said: “I think he defended well [during the victory at Spotland]. Taking the goal aside, that’s not what he’s paid to do, he’s paid to defend and I thought he did that well today.
“Him and Pearcey, I think they looked solid. I’m pleased for Deji though because he’s been working hard and knocking on my door for a long time and asking: ‘What do I need to do to get in?’
“At the moment he’s got this opportunity and he’s grabbing it. I’m really pleased for him.”
The triumph in the north west also provided a chance for Bowyer to give new arrival Diallang Jaiyesimi his first Charlton appearance as he was introduced from the bench for the final 12 minutes.
“We saw little glimpses of what he’s capable of and what he’s going to bring to us,” added Bowyer.
“He’s that unpredictable one. He got crosses in as well. Slid a nice ball to [Darren] Pratley. Good glimpses. He worked out of possession as well. Worked hard for the team. He’s a good addition for sure.”
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