Lee Bowyer on the big factor in Charlton’s impressive display at Nottingham Forest

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Lee Bowyer reckons he is now able to make the team changes to help Charlton get positive results – and has defended Forest manager Sabri Lamouchi for resting some of his big-hitters in midweek.

The Addicks were underdogs at the City Ground, especially after a lacklustre showing at Stoke City last weekend, but deservedly won 1-0 thanks to Lyle Taylor’s first-half goal.

“Their manager got a bit of stick for making changes but in their game against Leeds they had to work extremely hard – we know that because we did as well when we played them,” said Bowyer.

“But it wasn’t like he was bringing in players that weren’t any good. He brought in a player that played in the Premier League last season to replace Ameobi.

“He didn’t weaken their side. They are fortunate just to have good players and good replacements.

“We had to go there and try to win. I knew from how we played at our place against them that we had a chance. I believe that in every game.

“But we had to make a couple of changes as well. Andre [Green] has a bit of a problem with his knee and there was no Jonny Williams, if he plays Saturday-Tuesday you’re risking that he’s going to break down.

“We had to make some changes and I brought Naby and Doughty in. We had to freshen it up a little bit.

“I’ve not been able to do that [due to injuries] and it has been tough on the lads to go Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday. Even Saturday to Saturday is tough for some of the younger lads.

“We played well from start to finish against Forest. We competed really well and moved the ball well. We deserved the win.”