PREVIEW | Southend United v Charlton


George Jones reports

Charlton will sign off from 2016 by making the relatively short trip to Roots Hall to face Southend United on New Year’s Eve (1pm).

The match, in which the Addicks will be backed by near-to 2,000 supporters, will see Karl Robinson’s side try to build on their Boxing Day win at Milton Keynes Dons.

Charlton were not at their best for the festive victory but a rugged, defensive display enabled them to grind out a priceless three points and, come December 31st, Southend are likely to provide an equally tough test.

The Shrimpers are on a fantastic run of form. They have not tasted defeat in 11 league matches – a streak that has propelled them into the top six of League One.

Last time out, they recorded a comfortable 3-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon – their third successive win – with Simon Cox netting a double and Will Atkinson also scoring.

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The Addicks have been dealt another blow with Ademola Lookman having to miss Friday’s training session through illness. He is unlikely to feature, while Johnnie Jackson with a hamstring injury and Nicky Ajose with an ankle complaint are also doubts.

Elsewhere, Jason Pearce, Ricky Holmes, Lee Novak, Chris Solly, Declan Rudd and Ahmed Kashi remain sidelined.

For Southend United, Anton Ferdinand should be fit to play, despite suffering a slight ankle injury in their Boxing Day win over AFC Wimbledon. Goalkeeper Mark Oxley is out with an elbow problem. 



Charlton have an impressive record against the Shrimpers. In their 42 previous meetings, the Addicks have been victorious on 24 occasions and lost only nine times. There have also been nine draws.

The two clubs last met in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in November 2010. Therry Racon scored the game’s only goal as Charlton won 1-0. 



Mark Haywood will take charge of our final match of 2016.

So far this season, he has overseen 21 matches – across five different competitions - where he has brandished 69 yellow cards and five reds.

He last took charge of Charlton earlier this month for our goalless draw against Bradford City at Valley Parade. He sent off Patrick Bauer in that match.

He will be supported by linesmen Paul Kelly and Rob Smith and fourth official Robert Hyde.

 

Supporters can follow all the build-up to the game on Charlton's official Instagram account, official Twitter account, Facebook page official Snapchat account and on the CAFC Wall.

Live commentary of the clash will be available on the club’s Matchday Live service on CAFC PlayerHD.

Supporters can follow live updates and have your say by using the CAFC Wall. An in-depth match report and full match reaction will be available shortly after the final whistle, while supporters can watch extended, multi-angle highlights on CAFC PlayerHD.



The club were informed on Thursday afternoon that tickets will be subject to a price increase on the day of the match. They will be priced at £25 adults, £18 over 60s, £17 under 21s and students, £12 U16s and £5 U8s. Tickets can be purchased from Roots Hall’s north east corner. 
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