Wimbledon coming home as Charlton fight for lives
The EFL Trophy may not stir the interest of fans in normal circumstances but during these strange times, this game could rouse a bit of intrigue. Can Charlton maintain their quality on the pitch despite problems off it? Have a read of our preview here:
Exciting times for Wimbledon
The return to Plough Lane is almost upon us as AFC Wimbledon prepare to head home to their true place in London’s south-west.
Under Glenn Hodges, they have found a manager who has instilled a good spirit within the dressing room, something that help them rise to the heights all those years ago.
This summer a lot of focus has been on the progress made on the Plough Lane site as the new stadium begins to really take shape. It is a short walk from where the original ground stood and replaces the old greyhound track.
However, on the pitch, Hodges has assembled a decent side with the stand out additions being Ollie Palmer and Alex Woodyard from Crawley and Peterborough respectively.
They will be important players as the Dons look to defy the odds and stay above the relegation zone in a division that mixes minnows and heavyweights alike.
Charlton just hoping to start the season
These are troubled times for Charlton – a phrase heard all too often over the last couple of years. It is about as serious as it gets this time, however, and there are real doubt about the club being allowed to start the season.
Without going through the whole complicated saga, the EFL are not happy with the Charlton ownership and genuine buyers appear to be blocked by an injunction put in place by another potential purchaser – who failed the EFL owner’s test.
The one ray of sunshine is the presence of Lee Bowyer. The miracle worker remains in the dugout at the Valley, but he has got to be fed up with the constant headaches.
His squad, although thin, looks decent. There’s a good group there if they don’t lose any more players and the signings of Connor Washington and, in particular, Alex Gilbey, look exciting.
If the off-field issues get sorted, this could be a strong season for Charlton, but right now there are too many ‘ifs’ for anyone to be sure.
AFC Wimbledon v Charlton betting tip
There is a feeling that the Addicks still have a good core group and if Lee Bowyer can maintain the focus, this should be a game they can win. That’s why we are backing Charlton to win at odds of 2.45 with bet365 on Tuesday.
