Darel Russell

An unexpected choice for our 21st signing (yet to be confirmed). Hull’s James Harper was widely expected to be Powell’s last minute loan signing today to cover for the absence of Johnnie Jackson but wages were thought to be a problem. Preston North End’s Darel Russell looks like coming to The Valley instead.

The midfielder is 31 and has fallen out of favour with manager Phil Brown this season but was a Norwich regular under Paul Lambert (who would you have more faith in?) when they stormed through this division two seasons ago. He did play and score against us in the League Cup at The Valley earlier this season.

Unlike Ephraim, who potentially I can see being signed permanently, this is a loan to make sure we have enough cover and Russell’s versatility (he can play right-back too) may well be a plus point for Powell.

CONFIRMED: 11.50AM (Bermuda time)

With time running out it appears that Benno is stuck with us, or visa-versa as his Bradford City move has fallen through due to problems with his medical, although the Newsshopper suggests it is more to do with the terms of the deal.

Why an earth it took until today for Benno to attempt to finalise his deal is beyond me, but I wonder if he actually wants to move up north. It took Charlton an age to prise him away from Daggers and then he committed to Notts County, but then pulled out last minute.

Anyhow, it looks like he will be kicking his heels until January at least now. Shame as he needs and deserves to be playing.

Finally last night Charlton progressed in the FA Youth Cup beating Yeovil 3-o thanks to a Callum Harriott hat-trick. Doctor Kish was there.