Fulham loanee’s minutes were pre-planned in Charlton’s draw at Sutton United

Charlton Athletic boss Ben Garner has confirmed that Steven Sessegnon’s withdrawal at the interval in Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Sutton United was pre-planned.

The defender, playing at left-back, started the match but was replaced for the second half by Charles Clayden.

Sessegnon has joined on a season-long loan from Fulham and made his first appearance in last week’s friendly win against Colchester United.

“He did 15 on Tuesday and the plan was 45 today – then step him up from there,” Garner told the South London Press at the weekend.

“It would have been a big jump to go from, say, 15 to 60 or 75, like the other players.

“It was a case of 45 minutes in. He looked strong in the back half of the half, because it does take a while to get going in pre-season – he got the first 20 minutes and then I thought the next 25 he looked a lot stronger, which was pleasing.”

PICTURE: KYLE ANDREWS