Charlton Athletic’s Matty Godden May Return with Impact Soon

Charlton Athletic is experiencing a strong resurgence in the Championship, highlighted by a recent 1-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion. As the team heads into November, they have achieved six wins in 14 matches, defying preseason predictions of a challenging campaign. Manager Nathan Jones has built a squad known for its defensive strength, with all 16 of their goals this season distributed among various players. Sonny Carey leads the scoring charts for the Addicks with five goals to his name.

Despite their successful start, concerns regarding the team’s striking options have surfaced. The club has only managed to score more than once in three games this season, raising questions about the potential impact of experienced frontman Matty Godden upon his return from knee surgery. Godden, who is currently out of contract until June 2024, could extend his stay at the club for another year, depending on his performance and fitness.

Godden joined Charlton last summer from Coventry City, signing a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee. In his debut season, he made a significant impact by scoring 22 goals in 49 appearances, including a crucial strike in the League One play-off semi-final against Wycombe Wanderers, which propelled the team to Wembley.

Currently, Godden is still recovering and missed the recent match against West Brom. However, Charlton supporters, including fan pundit Chris, are optimistic about his potential contributions once he is fit. Chris emphasized Godden’s status as the club’s top attacker last season, noting, “He scored 18 goals in just 29 league starts, 19 if we include the play-offs.”

The Addicks’ current forward line has struggled to find the net, with their four forwards contributing just three goals across 14 matches. Chris acknowledged that while the forwards excel in their pressing and physical play, none match Godden’s finishing ability and movement in the box.

Charlton has brought in Charlie Kelman as a project player, hoping to develop him into a similar talent to Godden. While Kelman has shown promise in limited opportunities, he still needs to improve his positioning and link-up play. Chris added, “With Godden’s age, injury issues, and the fact he was deemed not good enough at this level by Coventry, it suggests that it could be a step too far to replicate his form from the back end of last season.”

Given Jones’ history of slowly reintegrating injured players into the squad, it is likely that Godden will not be rushed back into action. Chris noted, “Since he offers something completely different to our other forwards with his experience and intelligence, I’m confident his time in a Charlton shirt isn’t done just yet.”

Godden has been engaged in fitness work and is expected to return just before December. With a busy schedule ahead, there will be opportunities for him to contribute. Chris expressed hope that if Godden can maintain his fitness, he could finish the season as the club’s top scorer, potentially prompting Jones to trigger the option for an additional year on his contract.

As the oldest member of the squad, Godden’s experience will be invaluable for Charlton, particularly for younger players like Kelman and Isaac Olaofe, who have yet to make a significant impact in front of goal. Godden’s past performance in the Championship, where he scored 12 goals during the 2021/22 season, adds further encouragement for his potential return to form.

Charlton Athletic looks poised to benefit greatly from Matty Godden’s eventual comeback, as his presence could not only enhance the team’s attacking threat but also provide guidance to emerging talents within the squad.