Charlton’s promotion hopes suffered another blow after drawing 0-0 with Fleetwood.
The Addicks, who haven't won in four games, lacked creativity against the relegation-threatened side.
Here are five things we learned…
Only a remarkable winning run can save Charlton’s season
Realistically, the Addicks need seven wins from their remaining ten games to stand any chance of making the top six.
This is a tall order given they have won just five league games since October. Saturday was an opportunity to rectify their current form, however, Charlton struggled and were fortunate not to concede in the second-half.
A win would've closed the play-off gap to three points, but once again, Karl Robinson’s men failed to take advantage.
Johnnie Jackson is needed… on the pitch
Last week, Charlton’s captain told News Shopper that he expected to play some part in the club’s run-in. But he was an unused substitute on Saturday.
With just one win in eight games, Jackson would bring fight and desire to this Charlton team.
You need leaders at this stage of the campaign - and Charlton are lacking them at the moment.
Jay Dasilva is a big miss
While Naby Sarr, a centre-half, didn't do too much wrong playing out of position at left-back, Dasvila’s absence was felt.
Sarr tried to get forward when he could, but it wasn't the same as having the Chelsea loanee bombing up and down the left wing.
Injuries to Chris Solly, Lewis Page and Dasilva forced Robinson to start four centre-backs on Saturday. And most notably, Dasilva’s attacking threat was sorely missed.
The Valley atmosphere was close to toxic
Charlton were deservedly booed at the end of both halves. To only have two shots on target at home is shocking.
Groans rang out midway through the first-half as the Addicks kept on passing back to goalkeeper Ben Amos.
Their lack of creativity, despite having Tariqe Fosu and Ben Reeves on the pitch, was worrying.
You can’t blame the fans for expressing their displeasure after watching an average performance in extremely cold weather.
Is 4-4-2 the way forward?
The Valley faithful cried out for “4-4-2, 4-4-2” as their team failed to break down Fleetwood.
Robinson changed it up on the hour mark by bringing on Nicky Ajose and Michal Zyro and switching to a 4-4-2 formation. The two substitutes partnered each other up front.
Despite a few nearly moments, the system tweak did not work as the Cod Army dealt with Charlton’s tactical switch.
The 4-2-3-1 system hasn't been working and the 4-4-2 shape didn't have the desired effect. It’s left Robinson with lots to ponder ahead of the Plymouth clash.
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