Charlton boss reveals reason for Chuks Aneke’s absence at Dartford

Nathan Jones says that Charlton are keeping a close eye on the fitness of forward Chuks Aneke.

The striker didn’t make the trip to Dartford for this afternoon’s pre-season friendly – but he is expected to join the squad as they head off to Slovenia tomorrow morning.

He missed two large chunks of last season and has suffered from a string of injury problems throughout his Addicks career.

When asked why he wasn’t at Princes Park, Jones explained: “It’s a bit early for Chuks. He’s had a bit of a fitness….it’s an ongoing process with Chuks.

“We’re going to need to try and get everything we can out of him. We can’t take big risks with him. If he does feel anything, we tend not to risk him. Miles [Leaburn] is doing really well with his recovery.”

Goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer was also absent at Dartford after missing the end of last season following surgery on a cracked jaw but Jones confirmed he is now back in training.

PHOTO: KEITH GILLARD