U23 Match Preview: Cardiff City vs. Charlton Athletic

Cardiff City’s U23 squad face Charlton Athletic at Leckwith International Sports Stadium for their ninth Professional Development League Two fixture of the 2018/19 campaign on Monday, 15th October – 2pm kick-off.

The Addicks’ U23 side are managed by former Southampton and Middlesbrough striker Jason Euell. The former Jamaican international notched 87 goals in 427 career league games spanning over 17 years. Now the 41 year old has switched his attention to the coaching side of football. This season, his side currently sit sixth in the league standings; totalling one win, four draws and three defeats.

In their last outing, the London based side were narrowly defeated 1-0 by close rivals Millwall at Calmont Road, Bromley. A free-kick from Lewis White was enough to separate the sides.

Last Time Out

It was a six goal thriller when these sides last faced each other, on Monday, 18th December 2017. At Sparrows Lane, the home side raced to a 2-0 lead before James Waite pulled a goal back on the stroke of half time.

Charlton restored their two goal advantage shortly after the hour mark, but were pegged back by the determined Bluebirds to draw level. Firstly Mark Harris, currently on-loan at Newport County, reduced the deficit before Waite grabbed a deserved brace and last gasp equaliser. At full time the game ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw.

Pre-Match Quotes

Cardiff City’s U23 Head Coach, Jarred Harvey gave his thoughts prior to the Monday afternoon kick-off.

“We’re looking forward to this test after having the time off. The break gave us a chance to get back to full-strength. We’ve had time to reflect on the last game and are now ready for a new challenge.

“Charlton are always a tough opposition. They’re a strong and very physical side and they’re very good at imploring their style. It should be a good game for the squad.”

After making his first appearance of the season in the U23’s last outing, midfielder James Waite also shares his views ahead of the clash.

“We’re all focussed for our game against Charlton. The whole squad has been improving each week in training and stuck together after some difficult results. We’ve just got to keep looking forward and take each game as they come.”

Catch-Up: Extended highlights of the match will be available to subscribers of Cardiff City TV.

Social: Live updates will come via our official Academy Twitter account, @CF11Academy.