‘Not really’ – Joey Barton delivers Charlton Athletic verdict after 6-0 win over Shrewsbury 

Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton doesn’t believe his side are fearful of taking on Charlton Athletic, despite the Addicks putting six goals past Shrewsbury last weekend.

The South Londoners are seven points ahead of Barton’s side in the table heading into tomorrow’s clash at the Memorial Stadium.

A brace from ex-Millwall forward John Marquis saw the Gas come from a goal down to win 2-1 at The Valley in December.

Rovers have not played since a 2-0 defeat to Portsmouth on March 18.

“They’re in a good moment, aren’t they,” Barton told Bristol Rovers’ YouTube channel of Charlton.

“They’re certainly looking up the table. But you expect them to be. There are some big clubs in the division, but the amount of former Premier League clubs in our division at the minute is interesting.

“We got the better of them at their place. They were good in the first period. But we came on stronger.

“They obviously brought Dean in and have made a good start under him.

“They’re a good side – we will have to be at our best to take maximum points.”

Dean Holden’s side bagged six against Shrewsbury Town last weekend.

“No, not really,” said Barton, when asked if his side were fearful about facing an in form Charlton.

“It [the 6-0 win over Shrewsbury] did surprise me. I know Charlton have picked up, but Shrewsbury have been doing quite well. 

“But Friday is a completely different game. We think we can cause them problems.”