‘New era’ – Sam Lavelle competing hard for a starting spot at Charlton Athletic
Sam Lavelle has described Charlton’s summer of change as a “new era”.
The Addicks have a new manager in Ben Garner and have made six signings in the transfer window, with midfielder Jack Payne – a free agent after leaving Swindon Town – joining earlier today.
Lavelle is scrapping for one of the centre-back spots in the Charlton line-up.
“I think all the lads will agree with me, it feels like a new era,” said the former Morecambe defender. “New manager, new training ground and new staff – a lot of new players – as a team and club we’re excited to see what we can do.
“I want to stay injury free, play as many games as possible and help the team finish higher up.
“I’m feeling good, feeling fit – back to fitness now after my operation. Looking forward to my first 90 and getting that match fitness and shaprness back.
“Everyone is feeling good and starting to peak now with the new season a couple of weeks away. We’ll adapt to the new style and look forward to it.”
Garner has opted to add an extra fixture on Saturday meaning that some of his squad will play at The Valley against Swansea, while others are set to feature in a behind-closed doors friendly at the club’s Sparrows Lane training ground.
Asked if that would add extra spice to training this week to try an be involved in the match that was open to the public, Lavelle responded:
“Possibly yeah. It’s natural the closer the season gets that everyone is pushing to start or play.
“As a footballer you always want to play in front of the fans, even a friendly game. I’ll be itching to play and hopefully getting the minutes up, get no injuries and get through it as a team.”
Charlton played in sweltering temperatures on Saturday as they drew 0-0 with Sutton United.
Lavelle said: “It was a hot one. I think all the lads said in there [the dressing room] that it’s the hottest they’ve ever played in. When the heat is like that it is hard to get going and get a second wind.
“It’s probably shown with the tempo of the game at times. But we’ve got through it with no injuries and it’s a clean sheet as well, which shows a bit of togetherness.”
PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD