Michael Appleton reveals thoughts on battle between Scott Fraser and Louie Watson for starting berth – and Miles Leaburn’s recent performances

A selection headache has emerged in midfield for Charlton boss Michael Appleton.

The Addicks manager has flitted between starting Luton Town loanee Louie Watson and fellow engine roomer Scott Fraser over the last few weeks.

It was the Scot who was awarded a start during the 1-1 draw at Carlisle United – his first since beginning each of the back-to-back defeats against Lincoln City and Bolton Wanderers.

When asked why the former Ipswich man was given the nod over Watson, Appleton revealed: “It was more experience for today. I knew it was going to be a difficult occasion with the new ownership. They came in their 1000s today, the Carlisle fans. A lot more than previously, we knew we had to deal with that.

“Scotty was good, to be fair. All of a sudden, he’s starting to find a bit of form and popping up in goalscoring positions that we want him to. It’s a good battle between those two. Long may it continue.”

Up top, forward Miles Leaburn has only bagged one goal in his last eight appearances in all competitions.

When asked for his thoughts on the striker’s recent performances, Appleton replied: “He’s been alright Miles. He’s got a lot of responsibility on his shoulders with Chuks [Aneke] out of the group., There’s occasions when we can play with Alfie [May] as a nine but if we do that, we have to be careful not to isolate him because of his lack of physical prowess.

“He’s only a young kid. He will improve, he will get better. Games like today will be good for him and important for him. The good thing for some of those young players is when we do play at home, they find a way of giving an extra five or ten percent because of the support and they are home grown. Hopefully that will be the case.”