Following Charlton’s 2-1 victory against Barnsley on Saturday, goalscorer Andre Green reflected on his impressive start to life in SE7, the importance of strike partner Lyle Taylor and what the three points means to the players.
The striker netted his first goal at The Valley in first-half stoppage time, his second since signing for the club, but he believes that there is more to come as he adapts to his new role.
“I’m happy with how I’ve started. Hopefully I can get more goals, it’s what I’ve been brought here to do. Before signing here, I knew the club was renowned for bringing through great players and hopefully I can improve my game…”
“At Villa I was a winger but when I was with [Lee Bowyer], I said I was happy to play anywhere – especially up front. I like to score goals and you get more chances there. I love that scoring feeling. I’m happy with anywhere in the front three.
“I feel like I’m turning into a confident striker, I know how to play up there. Hopefully I can keep scoring, I know I have to score to stay in the team so it’s up to me.”
With much of the lead up to the match focussing on the importance of a win for both sides, the 21-year-old discussed the impact that the result can have on the team.
“We knew what the game meant to us, what we had to do to climb up the table.
“It was a six pointer; we knew that all week leading up to the game. The pressure was on us but it was on them as well. We both had to win, we’re delighted to get the three points. Hopefully we can go on a run now.”
Alongside the loan signing of Green, another major boost to the Addicks in the January transfer window was retaining Lyle Taylor - who received praise from his fellow strike partner.
“Lyle staying was massive. Every time he’s played, we haven’t lost. It brings me more confidence knowing I have him next to me, knowing we can score a lot of goals.” Green said.
But praise was not limited to the forward as the on-loan Villan explained how he has settled into life in the capital with ease.
“It was really easy to come here and feel at home, it’s such a family club. The gaffer and coaching staff told me that before I came. The lads told me that and were so welcoming when I came in.
“Everyone trains together at the training ground. All the young age groups as well. Everyone’s a part of it. You walk past people, and everyone says hello. It makes it a lot easier for me to go out there and do my best on a Saturday.”
[Article by Nick Emms]
