Whilst it may be easy to forget that the South East-London side were fancied pre-season to be right up at the top of the League One table at Christmas, it has simply not been the case.
Underwhelmed
A combination of poor performances on the pitch and questionable mismanagement off the pitch have resulted in an underwhelming season in which Russell Slade received the chop, and Karl Robinson stepping into his shoes at the Addicks’ helm.
Although it is could possibly be too early to judge, it has been a less than spectacular start for the ex-MK Dons manager – currently boasting a win percentage of 25% thus far.
Déjà vu
Remarkably enough, Robinson has faced his former side of six-years, MK Dons, three times, only proving to be triumphant just the once.
Having to wait six fixtures to claim his first victory, the League One outfit have made improvements on the pitch as of late and are unbeaten in three, winning two.
The last three fixtures have seen Charlton take points from two teams also vying for a play-off position having drawn 1-1 with Southend and despatching Bristol Rovers 4-1 at The Valley.
Positives
The East-London side have scored 13 goals in their last 8 league matches, alarmingly, with nine of those goals being scored against Bristol Rovers in their two league meetings whilst maintaining a respectable defensive record.
The likelihood of goals has most definitely taken a hit with the departure of highly-rated youth product and this season’s top scorer Ademola Lookman to Everton. Northern Irish striker Josh Magennis will be hoping to step up and fill the void left by such an exit, and he kicked 2017 off with his first ever hat-trick in English football.
The upcoming fixtures will provide a challenge to Karl Robinson as he looks to build on his sides growing momentum, welcoming South East-London rivals Millwall and high-flying Scunthorpe United to The Valley.
Following a 4-1 win on the second day of the New Year, Robinson and his team will be hoping to ensure 2017 is filled with a lot more joy and goals than 2016.
