Our prediction for this League 1 match:
Bristol Rovers will be aiming to make amends for back-to-back defeats to Wycombe and Portsmouth when they take on Charlton Athletic on Matchday 40. The Pirates suffered a dip in form, but their League One status is not in danger as they are ten points clear of the relegation zone. Since important defender Jarell Quansah is banned for the match, we are not tempted to put our money on the home side.
The Red Robins, on the other hand, impressed in a 6-0 crushing of Shrewsbury Town, which is yet another reason why we are going to bet on the visiting team. A man to keep an eye on in the visiting side will be talented forward Miles Leaburn, who has been scoring goals for fun of late. Sean Clare limped off with injury at the weekend, with Steven Sessegnon likely to step up.
Highlighted Player (Glenn Whelan):
Probably one of the most underrated footballers in Premier League history, Glenn Whelan was born on 13 January 1982 in Dublin and he went on to enjoy a very successful career on club and international level.
Following spells with Manchester City, Bury and Sheffield Wednesday, the defensive midfielder found his peace at the Britannia Stadium, making over 250 Premier League appearances for Stoke City and keeping his place in the side under both Tony Pulis and Mark Hughes. Predominantly focused on doing the dirty defensive work and helping out the back four, Whelan never quite made the headlines for his style of play or quality of his displays, but remained an important player for both club and country.
The midfielder has so far made over 70 appearances for the Republic of Ireland national team, wearing the captain’s armband on several occasions, and starting all three group games at the Euro 2012 finals, while helping The Green Army qualify for the Euro 2016 as well.
Highlighted Team (Charlton):
Charlton Athletic are yet another capital club that will compete in the 2019/2020 Championship season. Founded back in 1905, the Red Robins welcome their opponents at the Valley, the stadium which can hold up to 28,111 spectators. Charlton Athletic wear red shirts and white shorts when playing on home soil, whereas black is the dominant colour of their away kit.
Winning of the 1946/1947 FA Cup trophy is considered the club’s biggest success. The Red Robins defeated Burnley 1-0 in the title game, with Chris Duffy scoring the winner for Jimmy Seed’s charges in extra-time.
Fellow capital clubs Crystal Palace and Millwall are regarded as Charlton’s fiercest rivals, whilst Samuel Bartram, who made 579 appearances for the club is one of the most famous footballers who played for the Valley outfit. The club based in London will compete in the English second tier in the 2019/2020 season following a three-year absence.