Bielik returns injured

Charlton had six players away on international duty – Lyle Taylor, Igor Vetokele, Krystian Bielik, Josh Cullen, Josh Parker and Chris Maxwell. The last three didn’t get to play although Cullen may get another chance on Tuesday when the Irish host Georgia.

Taylor’s long trip to the Cayman Islands ended most likely in disappointment, but Igor’s Angola qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations after they beat Botswana 1-0 on Friday. Bielik played for Poland’s U21 against England in a friendly at Ashton Gate and fell awkwardly in the 2nd half, but did finish the game.

However, according to Lee Bowyer he will have a scan on an ankle injury, which is bad news.

In the games I have seen either in the flesh, on TV or via iFollow, Bielik has impressed me. He is strong defensively, very hard to get off the ball and has quick feet. He’s been very good every time I’ve watched him and is an exceptional talent.

We are blessed with an abundance of good midfielders although never has Bowyer had the full compliment to pick from. Josh Cullen can also play in that defensive point of midfield, and admittedly hit the League One ground running quicker, but losing Bielik will be big blow.

Jake Forster-Caskey meanwhile will return to training this week ahead of schedule and he’s faster than normal recovery from an ACL is a massive boost.