Charlton transfer window signing is beginning to stake a stronger claim for a starting spot

Tennai Watson’s impressive cameo in Charlton’s 3-1 win over Wycombe Wanderers yesterday has handed head coach Michael Appleton another defensive option.

The 26-year-old right-back signed for the Addicks on September 1 and has been building up his fitness after being a free agent over the summer months following his decision to reject a new deal at Milton Keynes.

Watson made his Charlton debut at the weekend and came off the bench to assist Slobodan Tedic’s goal against the Chairboys.

Appleton has started Udinese loanee James Abankwah at right-back in his two matches in charge. The Republic of Ireland U21 international was replaced by Watson in the 79th minute.

Asked if former AFC Wimbledon loanee Watson is getting closer to being able to start matches, Appleton said: “I think he is and that’s what sometimes gets missed in all of it. We’ve got James, who is a centre-back, playing at right-back – we didn’t really have that many options in those areas because Tennai isn’t ready to start, or certainly wasn’t before today.

“He’s had 60 minutes in the U23s on Tuesday and we had to ask Terell to play at left-back. I know he has played there before but it’s not his natural position.

“The lads are coming in and standing up – putting a shift in. That’s all I can ask of them.”

PICTURE: PAUL EDWARDS