Charlton winger Diallang Jaiyesimi makes most of first serious league game time since September

Johnnie Jackson decribed Diallang Jaiyesimi as “outstanding” for the way he performed after replacing Jonathan Leko in the early stages of Charlton’s 4-0 win over Doncaster Rovers.

Leko was visibly struggling and lasted just 15 minutes at The Valley.

Jaiyesimi had not even made the bench in six of the final seven League One matches under previous manager Nigel Adkins.

This was his first significant game time since the 2-1 home loss to Cheltenham on September 11.

Asked about the removal of Leko, caretaker boss Jackson said: “He’s got a little aggravation with his hip. I haven’t spoken to the physios yet. Disappointing to lose him, but we’d done some work with DJ as well – who was outstanding when he came on.

“He was ready to step into that role. Any player needs to know what is required in their position when they come on to the pitch and what we’re trying to do. We’d done some good work with DJ during the week – bearing in mind he might need to come on in that position.

“He fulfilled it brilliantly.

“It is a complete clean slate [for all the players], I said that to them on day one. No-one had stuck out because of their performances – they hadn’t been good enough. I said that now is the chance. I had to pick a team quickly for Sunderland, on how I thought we could beat them. And I’ll pick teams based on what I see during the week as well, not just on what I’ll see in games.

“Then if you get the shirt it is yours to keep. Make yourself undroppable is what I’ve said to them. So far a lot of them have.”

Adam Matthews was absent with a calf problem.

“He was great up at Sunderland but Chris Gunter came in and did brilliantly in that same role,” said Jackson. “I don’t think it is something we’re particularly concerned with but it was enough to keep him out of the game. I’d say he’s got a chance for Tuesday.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD