Lapslie hoping to build on Mansfield victory as he eyes regular starting place

Young midfielder George Lapslie is hoping to become a regular figure in the Charlton starting XI after an impressive display in the 5-0 FA Cup victory over Mansfield at The Valley on Tuesday.

Lapslie got an assist and played the full 90 minutes as Charlton progressed to the second round of the competition.

“I’m happy to get an assist, I just saw Nicky (Ajose) running like he did all game, he just kept running in behind,” said the 21-year-old. “I am happy for Nicky and happy for myself obviously.”

The midfielder also praised manager Lee Bowyer for helping him to achieve his targets: “My target is really just to be the best I can be and just keep applying myself every session. Lee’s unbelievable for me, he just talks to me and tells me exactly what he wants from me, which is ideal for me because I’m a good listener.

“Hopefully, I can just keep my head down and not get my head in the clouds and just try to get my name on the teamsheetmore often.”

Charlton’s young prospect’s game time has improved recently due to the injuries within the squad. When asked, he said he’ll step in whenever he’s needed: “Obviously, I’m not happy for other boys to get injured but when I’m called upon I’ll do my best. One thing you’ll always see is I’ll always give 100%.”

Lapslie began Tuesday's game in central midfield but moved to the holding-midfield role towards the end of the first half, allowing Billy Clarke to move into the number 10 position. The Englishman is hoping to build upon his performance in the 5-0 victory and he’s happy to play wherever he is needed.

He said: “I think Billy was more effective in the number 10 role and I think I was more effective tracking his runner. I didn’t get on the ball as much as I would like or as much as I have done in other games but I’ve done a job for the team and hopefully they are happy with me.

“I see myself as a box-to-box midfielder because I think I bring energy but wherever Lee asks me to play, I’ll play".

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Article by Greg Carter

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