Charlton Athletic land Josh Cullen on loan as Bowyer reveals deal doubts

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Charlton Athletic have signed Josh Cullen on loan – with caretaker manager Lee Bowyer admitting he had doubts if they could pull off landing the West Ham United midfielder.

The 22-year-old’s debut could be against hometown club Southend United on Saturday.

He was an unused substitute for the Hammers in their 3-1 EFL Cup win at AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday night.

Bowyer confirmed to the South London Press last week that Cullen, pictured above, was a target as he looked to add depth in the middle of the park.

We also broke the news that Leeds United’s Eunan O’Kane decided earlier this week he would not drop below Championship level, which appeared to have killed off hopes he could also be brought in before today’s deadline.

But Bowyer was delighted to get a deal for Cullen over the line. He said: “This is one that we thought was going to be out of our reach to be honest. 

“He’s a very good player, good experience in this league and went to the Championship last season. 

“We had to just hang in there and bide our time and thankfully he’s chosen to come to us. He’s a great addition to the squad. 

“He’s a very good player in and out of possession. I’ve always said I only want players that improve us, and he improves us.”

Jason Pearce, Ben Reeves and Tariqe Fosu could all be back in contention for starts at Roots Hall as Charlton face former boss Chris Powell.

IMAGE BY PAUL EDWARDS