International break is badly needed

Charlton's squad is on its knees.

The trip to North Wales ended in frustration, with injuries, illness, and a costly mistake from Onel Hernandez all contributing to a 1-0 defeat at Wrexham.

Key figures such as James Bree, Lloyd Jones and Kayne Ramsay battled through pain and illness to feature, while others were unavailable including Miles Leaburn who was listed as a substitute and proclaimed injured but there is much speculation and mystery as to what has actually gone on in-house.

Despite the setbacks, Charlton showed promise in the first half with decent chances keeping the home crowd quiet.

Fatigue began to tell after the break, and it was clear the team's mounting physical issues were taking their toll. Still, full credit goes to Ramsay, who, despite feeling unwell, made a lung‑bursting run deep into stoppage time to make a block and avert danger, sparking one last chance.

Substitute Luke Berry's header forced a good save from Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, preventing what would have been a dramatic equaliser.

Wrexham were far from dominant, and their previous home win over league leaders Coventry City underlined just how unpredictable this Championship season has become.

The long four‑hour journey back south offered time for reflection and perspective. With 23 points from 15 matches, Charlton's return so far is commendable.

For the third time this season, the team enters the international break on the back of a defeat - a break that feels badly needed, as the squad is clearly on its knees.

Reinforcements in January could prove vital if Nathan Jones is to maintain the fine work achieved so far and guard against suspensions and further injuries derailing momentum.

There remains a strong belief that Charlton can consolidate their Championship status by season's end but any loftier ambitions may depend on fitness and fortune.

Once the break concludes Charlton return to action with Southampton at home, followed by difficult away trips to high-flying Stoke and Coventry.

It's a tall order, but if there's one thing supporters have learned, it's never to underestimate a Nathan Jones team.