Chuks Aneke: Injuries keeping me off the pitch took a mental toll – Charlton fans have been unreal

Chuks Aneke has admitted he became embarrassed at his own injury problems – with the Charlton Athletic forward determined to hit the ground running next season. 

The 30-year-old has featured just 14 times in League One this season, missing a large chunk due to a hamstring injury.

Aneke has come off the bench in the last four outings under Nathan Jones and earned his side a point in their 2-2 draw at home to Wigan on Tuesday evening – scoring in the 79th minute when he met a George Dobson’s cross at the back post.

The former Birmingham, MK and Arsenal striker said: “Everybody knows my season has been up and down. I have been injured a lot of it, but it’s a testament to myself that I just keep going, and when I do play, I try and make a difference.

“I’m my own biggest critic – nobody has to tell me. It stays with me. You have to keep bouncing back in life. I wouldn’t be here in my career if I never bounced back.

“I’ll go into the summer and have a little reflection. It’s been tough. I don’t want to dwell on it.

“Sometimes you go out there and think: ‘Am I going to be able to complete the game?’

“It got a bit ridiculous – a bit embarrassing as well. 

“You just have to keep bouncing back. As long as I keep playing for this great club, I’m going to keep giving my all.

“As a footballer, you spend a lot of time by yourself – it’s tough being in the gym.

“I’m a footballer and I’m not here to just be in the gym – it takes a toll on you mentally.

“I’ll reflect and work on what I can to make next season a much better season.

“The Charlton fans have been unreal with me. I appreciate all the support from the fans.”

PICTURES: KYLE ANDREWS