Jones previews Shrewsbury clash

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Nathan Jones is relishing a return to The Valley this weekend following three successive away days.

The Addicks, who came from behind to beat Bolton Wanderers 2-1 in midweek, host Shrewsbury Town on Saturday in what is the first of two home games in four days.

"It’s a Gareth Ainsworth side so they’ll be well up for it," the boss said. "I’ve had some fantastic battles with Gareth over the years with his Wycombe side and my Luton side. It’s great to see him back in. 

"We always have a mutual respect - we’re the fiercest of competitors and have been over the years. I used to mark him when he played for QPR. His teams are an extension of him in terms of work rate and desire. I hold him in high regard because every time I’ve played a side managed by Gareth Ainsworth it’s a very tough afternoon."

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Four of Charlton’s next five fixtures are at The Valley, something which Jones says his team must take advantage of.

"It will be important that we capitalise," he explained. "We’ve probably had one of the toughest weeks you can have as a League One side really. Going away to Preston, which is a tough place to go and they’ve since picked up four points on the road, and then you go to Rotherham who are probably the form team at the minute, and then Bolton who are one of the best sides in the league. It’s been a real tough week, so we’re looking forward to getting back to The Valley."

The gaffer provided an update on Gassan Ahadme, who has been absent from the last two matchday squads.

"Gass, ironically, had Tyreece [Campbell] step on him during the warm-up away at Preston and then after the game his foot blew up, so that’s why he’s been out of the squad in the last two. He didn’t travel with us and has been having treatment.

"Tennai Watson and Kayne Ramsay are now back to full fitness and are back with the group."

Click here to purchase your tickets for Saturday's clash against Shrewsbury.

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