Charlton Athletic are set to host Millwall at The Valley on Friday at 8:15pm in what promises to be another fiery South London derby.
Since the Championship has returned Charlton have managed to remain unbeaten, collecting seven points from a possible nine to steer themselves away from the relegation zone.
Meanwhile, the Lions’ playoff chances are rapidly diminishing after a three-game winless run.
The three-month hiatus came at the perfect time for the Addicks who had lost three games on the bounce and were looking more and more likely to go down. Although they are only three points ahead of the drop zone, Lee Bowyer’s side have looked impressive and a win against their fierce rivals could propel them to safety.
With the news that Wigan have gone into administration and could be docked 12 points this season, Charlton’s survival chances are increased.
On the other side, Gary Rowett’s team lie in 11th position after falling to a tough 3-2 defeat against an inform Derby County, then were held to a disappointing stalemate against relegation-threatened Barnsley and a 1-1 to Swansea who also sit just outside of the play-off places.
Previous Meetings
9th November 2019 – Millwall 2-1 Charlton – Championship
14th January 2017 – Charlton 0-0 Millwall – League One
21st December 2016 – Millwall 3-1 Charlton – League One
Historically, Millwall have conquered this fixture, winning 36 times to Charlton’s 12.
Team News
On loan West Bromwich Albion midfielder Sam Field seems doubtful for the hosts after he picked up a head injury in the 35th minute against Cardiff.
Furthermore, right-back Adam Matthews and striker Tomer Hemed did not play against Cardiff and it is uncertain whether they will be involved in the fixture against Millwall.
In addition, defender Adedeji Oshilaja is in line to return to Charlton's starting 11 as he had to settle for a spot on the bench on Tuesday night due to him not being 100% match fit.
On the other hand, Bennett, who netted for the first time in a Millwall shirt on Tuesday, may not feature at all at The Valley, due to him having a back problem that meant he had to be substituted at half time in that game.
It has also been confirmed that forward Jon Dadi Bodvarsson will be unavailable for the encounter, meaning that the visitors attacking options will be limited.
Score prediction
With Charlton’s good form but poor league position and Millwall’s poor form but better league position, it’s tough to separate these teams. Both sides are 19th and 21st for goals scored in the league so it’s not going to be a high scoring affair.
Match Preview written by Owen Lloyd.