Lee Bowyer prepared to play the waiting game with new signing Erhun Oztumer

BY LOUIS MENDEZ

Lee Bowyer will allow new arrival Erhun Oztumer the time he needs to gain match fitness before introducing him to first-team action at The Valley.

Attacking-midfielder Oztumer finally signed a two-year deal with the Addicks on Friday morning after an arduous spell at cash-strapped Bolton Wanderers came to an end as he was allowed to walk away from his contract.

Charlton return to action as they take on Nottingham Forest on Wednesday evening but Bowyer says the game will come too soon for his latest acquisition.

“He only came in yesterday,” explained the Charlton boss.

“He trained yesterday, we didn’t do much yesterday. It’s a case of seeing where he is this week on Monday and Tuesday. Seeing fitness wise where he is at. I think that will be too soon, Tuesday. As soon as he is fit enough, he’ll be involved. At the moment, we’re strong in the midfield and attacking areas. We don’t have to rush him now. At the end of the day, he’s part of the squad. I’ll pick the right people in the right state ton be in the squad for matchdays.

“He’s an exciting one, similar to Jonny Williams. Exciting in possession and clever. He can finish – can score goals and create goals. He’s going to be a very good addition to the squad because it’s going to be a long season. I’m looking forward to working with him. He trained a little bit yesterday but didn’t look too fit. I don’t know what he’s done pre-season when he was at Bolton, I don’t know what has been their situation there. He needs to catch up fitness wise because we’re very fit.”