‘Exceptional’ – Crawley boss hails Charlie Barker ahead of Charlton Athletic clash

Crawley boss Rob Elliot has hailed former Charlton Athletic centre-back Charlie Barker as an ‘exceptional captain’ after their late 1-1 draw with Reading on Saturday.

Barker has made 28 appearances this season for the League One side after joining from Wealdstone in the summer.

The 22-year-old progressed through the Addicks’ academy and made 11 first team appearances.

The Imps beat Charlton 2-1 at The Valley back in December.

Last season’s League Two play-off winners Crawley are nine points from safety with 11 points from safety.

Former Charlton loanee Panutche Camara scored in the 90th minute as Crawley picked up a point against play-off chasing Reading.

“We’re having to play people out of position,” said Elliot, who made 109 appearances for the South Londoners as a player.

“We’re having to find solutions with the number of people unavailable.

“They gave us absolutely everything. There are some people I’m really proud of. Not just today, but through my whole time here.

“I said it in the changing room, Charlie Barker is an exceptional human and an exceptional captain today.

“I’m pleased for him and he epitomises everything that’s good about this group.”

PICTURE: ALAMY