Charlton Athletic Football Club News

• Nickname:The Addicks
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Chris Powell

• Ground:The Valley
• Capacity:27,111

Pardew backs Bent

02 Mar 2007 - 09:05:59

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Charlton Athletic manager Alan Pardew is confident that fit-again striker Darren Bent can grab the goals that will lift the Addicks away from the relegation zone.

The 23-year-old returned to action in the 4-0 win against West Ham United after a two-month injury lay-off as Charlton gave their fans some hope that they could avoid the drop.

"Darren Bent is a guy who can score goals in the Premier League," said Pardew.

"He's a very rare breed. [With him] we have an advantage [in the fight against relegation].

"We need to take that advantage by maximising his chances. We need to be playing better and getting deliveries to him and then he'll score.

"He'll finish if the team plays well - so we need to do that."

Charlton are still six points behind Wigan, who are one place outside the relegation zone, but have the chance to cut that gap when they face rock-bottom Watford at the weekend.

"These players are going to give it best possible shot," Pardew added.

"[Sir] Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho have said our team will have a chance and I hope that they are proved right."