Charlton boss Bowyer surprised to be able to bring back Wales defender Adam Matthews

Charlton manager Lee Bowyer is thrilled to have bagged wide man Adam Matthews – but surprised the Wales international did not get a Championship club this summer.

The 28-year old right-back today signed a deal with the Addicks until the end of the season and is expected to be on the teamsheet for the game against Oxford on Tuesday night.

The defender was a free agent so can sign outside the transfer window.

Bowyer said: “Adam thought and I thought that he would get a Championship club, because he’s a good player. But there are a lot of players out there finding it hard to get clubs – Adam is one of them.

“He is a good player and he is reliable and those two things are important. We have got a good squad and he will make us stronger.

“He’s a really good lad  – I know him inside out and he did really well for us last season. He gives us options down the right hand side.

“We have been clever with the business that we’ve done so far and still managed to save a bit in case something like this came up – not him specifically, but a useful addition.

“Adam became a better player last season playing with u. We were short in that position and have given him a contract until the end of the season.

“Chris Gunter has been excellent since he came in – and is great around the place with the younger lads.

“He had no pre-season behind him and has probably played more games than expected.

“There will be times when I can give him a rest knowing that I have Adam – we needed cover for Gunter.”