“That’s wrong” – Lee Bowyer rejects suggestion Charlton’s players have lost desire to perform for him

Lee Bowyer has dismissed any suggestion that his public criticism of some of his Charlton Athletic players has affected their desire to perform.

The Addicks are sliding out of contention for the League One play-offs and suffered a 3-0 reverse to Blackpool on Saturday.

But asked if the players might not be fully putting in a shift due to Bowyer criticising some of them, he replied: “That’s wrong. Because there is a mutual respect there.

“I will always treat them all the same – I treat them all with respect. If they do good things I say they did well. If they do bad things I say they did badly. That’s the game. If you are playing professional football you should be able to handle that. You can only take praise but can’t take criticism? Don’t be silly. They are men. That’s the kind of person I have been with them from day one – I’m honest and straight. If I’m asked a question I’m going to say how it is.

“They are trying. On Saturday we had two players sent off, rightly or wrongly, so they are trying. But mistakes are costing us.

“The first goal was another mistake and we’re chasing the game again. It is not easy when you keep going behind – and not through good play. We’ve conceded too many soft goals and given teams a leg up.

“Do I think they are trying? Yes, I do. I see them every day in training. Every time they step on the pitch they are trying – but they are making mistakes and it is costing us.”

PHOTO: PAUL EDWARDS