Lee Bowyer on the chances of Igor Vetokele starting for Charlton Athletic against Southend United – and setback for Joe Aribo
BY RICHARD CAWLEY
Lee Bowyer is not sure if Igor Vetokele is fit enough to start for Charlton Athletic in Saturday’s home game against Southend United.
The Angolan frontman had been out with a dislocated shoulder but made a return as a substitute in Saturday’s 1-0 loss at Fleetwood Town.
Charlton’s attacking options are limited for this weekend with Lyle Taylor suspended.
Josh Parker, snapped up on a short-term deal from Gillingham, is in contention for a start.
Vetokele tweeted about the birth of his son, William Gregory, on Tuesday.
“I don’t know if he is ready,” said Bowyer. “He played maybe 75 minutes the other day in our U23 game.
“I haven’t seen him since Saturday because he played in that match on Monday and his wife had the baby on Tuesday.
“I’ll see him this morning and find out how he feels and I’ll look at his clips for the U23s. Playing U23s is completely different and QPR had a young side out as well.
“So I don’t know if he is actually ready to start.”
Charlton will still be without Joe Aribo (knee).
“We thought he might be back involved this weekend in the squad but he has been put back.
“Pearcey [Jason Pearce] is still a couple of weeks away. He’ll be outside next doing straight-line stuff.”