The manager of Charlton, Michael Appleton, has been elaborating on why his team’s recent performances have seen on-loan midfielder Louie Watson sit on the bench for two games, only to come back and contribute two assists in yesterday night’s 3-2 victory over Wigan Athletic.
The 22-year-old was benched for Saturday’s 2-0 loss to Bolton Wanderers and the 3-1 loss at Lincoln City after starting three straight League One games with two victories and a draw.
Despite the fact that he entered the game in both, Appleton told the London News of his choice to do so, saying, “What he brings is he is a good ball carrier and good passer of the ball.”
“When the opposing midfield runs off the back of him, it’s something that many people won’t see—and this is just a part of his development. That occasionally hurts us.
“We need to be patient with Louie; he’s going to be a great football player.” He will receive his minutes on schedule.
“I’ve done it many times before from an educational and development standpoint, and I’ll do it again with Louie.”
The Addicks won 3-2, and Watson earned two assists on his return to the starting lineup for the trip to the Latics yesterday night.
On minute 21, the midfielder assisted in setting up the first goal when he sent a precise cross that was met by Alfie May. Lloyd Tickle saved May’s effort, but the forward successfully bundled the rebound home.
After ten minutes, Watson avoided a strong challenge and used a deft flick to reach May again. This time, May took a touch before blasting into the bottom corner.
Before the half, Charlton added a third goal, with former Luton defender Lloyd Jones initiating the move that resulted in Corey Blackett-Taylor scoring.
Watson picked up two assists in his comeback to the starting lineup for yesterday night’s 3-2 victory over the Latics.
The midfielder helped set up the opening goal on minute 21 as he sent Alfie May a crisp cross. May’s attempt was stopped by Lloyd Tickle, but the forward was able to bundle the rebound in.
Ten minutes later, Watson ducked under a forceful challenge and reached May once more with a superb flick. May took a touch this time, then launched herself into the bottom corner.
Prior to the half, Charlton added a third goal, with Corey Blackett-Taylor scoring after a play started by former Luton defender Lloyd Jones.
Following the interval, another former Luton player, Callum McManaman, entered the game for the home team. Wigan soon equalized through Theo Aasgaard after Watson was replaced on 83 minutes.
Even though Stephen Humphrys cut the lead to3-2, the visitors managed to hold on for six minutes of stoppage time to snap their losing streak.
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