What Barnsley can expect from Charlton on Saturday

We asked a Charlton podcast, Charlton Live five quickfire questions about the Addicks as Barnsley prepare to head to South East London on Saturday and play against Dean Holdens side.

The Tykes hope to bounce back from two 0-3 losses against Bolton and Derby County (FA Cup) whilst Charlton have won their last two league fixtures.

What difference has new manager Dean Holden made to Charlton?

He seems to have instilled some belief back into the side. The Addicks were on a six-game winless run in League One when he came in to replace Ben Garner and confidence was on the floor. It took a couple of games, and an awful performance away at Oxford in particular, before Holden seemed to get his message across. But he’s found some life in a side that has looked pretty lifeless at times this campaign.

How are Charlton likely to set up formation and playing style on Saturday?

Holden has trusted a 4-3-3 formation in the last few games. The Addicks were guilty of taking too many touches across the backline under previous boss Garner but Dean Holden has asked his side to get the ball up the pitch quicker. They rely heavily on the likes of Jes Rak-Sakyi and Corey Blackett-Taylor on either wing to create chances – although the talented midfielder Scott Fraser is also a real handful on the edge of the area.

Charlton have won last 2 In league.. What has been the difference that has turned your form around?

They’ve tightened up a bit at the back – even though still haven’t kept a clean sheet in ten league outings. But they’ve also been boosted by the arrival of a clinical edge. Often this season they’ve been wasteful in front of goal but they’ve scored five in their last two league games and do possess threats in attacking areas.

Which players should Barnsley worry about on Saturday?

Scott Fraser is in form. He’s bagged goals in each of the last two league games, as well as an assist. Holden has given him license to operate further forward and it has paid off. Miles Leaburn has also recently returned from injury and he’d been missed big time. A focal point up top for the Addicks.

Barnsley have suffered back to back 3-0 losses and conceded 4 penalties in 4 games. when the sides met at Oakwell in September Charlton threatened the tykes but were picked off in the second half. What type of game do you expect on Saturday?

It’s a hard one to call. The Tykes have struggled recently but possess plenty of quality. Charlton have just hit form and are still on a high from a gallant display in defeat at Old Trafford. An entertaining score-draw.

Our thanks to @Charltonlive