Charlton Athletic boss has high praise for his side after EFL Trophy win over Chelsea U21s

Nathan Jones was left more than satisfied with the performance of his Charlton Athletic side in their 3-0 win over Chelsea U21s on Tuesday night in the EFL Trophy.

Miles Leaburn headed home twice for the Addicks against his former club with Tyreece Campbell also on target.

The result at The Valley means that Charlton have progressed in the competition with one more group game – against Bromley – left to play.

“We were excellent,” said Addicks manager Jones. “It is a talented young Premier League side and probably the cost of their squad dwarves anything in League One, so you’re looking at some really talented individuals that, if you allow them to play, can embarrass you.

“We were really aggressive from the off, really went after them and should’ve scored more. Everyone was excellent. It was a young Chelsea side, so we’re not getting carried away. We won it in high areas so many times, with a little more composure we should’ve scored more.

“It was a really good night.

“Miles is learning the game, in terms of the goals he scores. He has to get that in his game – back stick headers – because he is six feet seven. He is gathering momentum, energy, strength and rhythm – that is a good thing.

“He has been out for a year, he is not Harry Potter and come back miraculously quickly. He is going to need a run of games and that is why this competition has been brilliant. He got a good 60 minutes and a bit of a cramp, it will be petrol in his tank – that is good for him.

“When we brought on the game changers they were brilliant. I know what Danny Hylton does – he’s brilliant. From leaving one on the keeper, to setting up a goal and trying to chip him – that’s Danny Hylton. Great header which the keeper has pulled off a great save. For a 25-minute cameo it is exactly what you want to see from your substitute.

“Tyreece has been terrific. We’re converting him into a central striker and that takes time but he is a threat. He is young and athletic.”

Goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer made a number of important stops to deny Chelsea a goal.

“It’s all to do with the squad,” said Jones, when asked about some of the players who have contributed in the competition but not featured heavily in the league. “Terry Taylor and Tayo Edun have been excellent in both games. Thierry Small was good and set up a goal tonight.

“Ash is a great lad and we know what he is as a goalkeeper – he’s one of the best shot stoppers you will see. And he was called upon tonight and probably made two world-class saves.”

PICTURES: KYLE ANDREWS