Aaron Henry is savouring every minute of first team experience after starring for the Addicks again on Tuesday night.
The 18-year-old was one of five academy graduates named in Ben Garner's starting line-up in midweek, as Charlton claimed a 1-0 victory at Walsall to progress to the third round of the EFL Cup for the first time since the 2015/16 campaign.
“We are all delighted," Henry told CharltonTV post-match. "We started the game really well in the first 10, 15 minutes but sort of dropped off towards the end of the first half. The gaffer said to us at half-time that we need to be better and I think we showcased that in the second half, and fair play to DJ [Diallang Jaiyesimi] it was a great goal.
“We knew what to expect," he continued. "Walsall are a physical side. We coped well in the second half especially."
Having enjoyed a successful loan spell with Wealdstone last season, Henry is hoping to break through into the Addicks' first team this term.
The midfielder scored his first senior goal for the Addicks with a stunning strike in the dying embers of the cup tie against Queens Park Rangers to book the date with the Saddlers, before earning his League debut for Charlton against Cambridge United last weekend.
“I progressed well on loan last year," explained Henry. "I am looking at this season as a chance to try and force my way into the team. It is going to be tough but I am willing to do it.
“I am really grateful and I want to take as many opportunities as I can. If I keep getting the minutes, hopefully I will keep playing well.
“These are the type of games where players come in and it is their chance to show that they should be starting in the league and it is the same for me. I want to keep playing well and get more chances in the league."
Henry was full of praise for Manager Ben Garner, adding: "He has been really good. All of the boys are on the same page with him. He is honest and he makes it clear what he wants from you, and that is when you want to give it to him and do your best.
"He has been really good with me, he tells me what I need to do better and tells me when I do well. I feel like we are in a really good position."
(Transcription by Alex Forrest)