Charlton Athletic defender: I could have played against Wigan – but I respect manager’s call

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Charlton Athletic captain Jason Pearce felt he could have started last weekend’s match at Wigan Athletic – with the centre-back looking almost certain to face Leeds United, another of his former clubs, on Saturday.

The centre-back was an unused substitute in the 2-0 loss at the DW Stadium as a tight groin prevented him training in the lead up to the Championship fixture.

Pearce told the South London Press: “I felt like I was alright for Saturday’s game but Bow [Lee Bowyer, manager] had his reasons why he didn’t want to take the risk and I said fair enough. I said I respected his decision.

“Hopefully I get back in the team, but we’ll see what he does.

“You’ve got to respect the manager because he is looking at the bigger picture. He wants to keep as many players fit as possible.

“Wigan was a big game for me and I wanted to play. I’m professional about it. I’ll look to have a good week’s training and try to be in the starting 11 on Saturday.”

See Friday’s South London Press for a full interview with Pearce.

PICTURE BY PAUL EDWARDS