Charlton Athletic boss delighted at ‘spot-on’ attitude as EFL Trophy progression secured
Charlton Athletic head coach Michael Appleton was pleased with the performance of his players as they clinched their place in the next round of the EFL Trophy with a 3-0 victory over Sutton United.
Corey Blackett-Taylor put the Addicks into an 11th-minute lead at The Valley with Conor McGrandles claiming the second.
Alfie May totted up his 15th goal of the campaign in all competitions as the League Two strugglers were seen off comfortably.
“I’m delighted,” said Appleton. “There was some good stuff tonight – not just with the ball but without the ball. Their attitude was spot on. There were a few lads who probably needed minutes, which was good as well.
Picture : Keith Gillard
“They just showed a really good appetite for the game. There was a hunger and desire. Since the back-to-back defeats that is four or five games unbeaten. We’re going in the right direction.”
McGrandles also scored a late leveller at Portsmouth in Charlton’s last league action.
The Scot is the first to admit he has endured a tough time with the South Londoners since signing on a free transfer from Lincoln City – a succession of injuries not aiding his cause.
Asked if McGrandles was beginning to build into what he can be as a player, Appleton said: “I hope so. I keep saying it, I know what the kid is capable of. I had him for two years at Lincoln and he was my captain in my final year.
“I know the performances he can show. If he stays injury free and continues on his path of fitness – getting the minutes in – you will see a very, very different Conor McGrandles to what you’ve seen so far. Since he has come back into the group he has been spot on, he’s been great. I hope that continues.
Picture : Keith Gillard
“We want to stay as healthy as we possibly can. We’ve got lots and lots of games coming up with the FA Cup and EFL Trophy now – pretty much up until the new year it is going to be Saturday-Tuesday Saturday-Tuesday. We have to manage the minutes of players and pick the right balance at the right time for each game. Hopefully everyone can contribute.”
PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD
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