Charlton boss Lee Bowyer explains Chelsea loanee Ian Maatsen’s absence at Rochdale
BY LOUIS MENDEZ
Lee Bowyer has explained Chelsea loanee Ian Maatsen’s absence during the 2-0 win at Rochdale on Saturday.
The 18-year-old left-back was missing from the matchday squad for the trip to Spotland, the second time he’s not been involved during the last three games having also missed the win at Stadium MK a fortnight ago.
The Dutchman had previously started every league game since his arrival at The Valley – apart from when he served a one-game suspension during the home loss against Milton Keynes in December.
Bowyer said: “He’s not picked up a knock. Ian is 18 years old and he’s played near on every minute of every game. Sometimes we’ve just got to look after him. Ben [Purrington] played really well at MK. Did he deserve to come out? Probably not. But Ian was now fresh.
“I’ve said before that I think I’ve got good options in the full-back positions. At the end there today, we were able to take Gunter off as he was on a yellow and put Adam Matthews on. I’m very fortunate and likewise on the left. I’ve got Ben Purrington who’s a good, solid left-back.”
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