Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones has delivered a positive injury update ahead of the club's Championship fixture against Queens Park Rangers. Josh Edwards and Charlie Kelman have both returned to full training, providing a significant boost to a squad currently sitting sixth in the table with 10 points from five games.
Jones confirmed the news in a report published by hayters.com this week. "We are in a better place," the manager said. "Josh Edwards and Charlie Kelman have trained fully which is a real boost for everyone, more so for them." Their return is timely for a side that has scored six goals but conceded seven this season, leaving them with a minus-one goal difference. The Addicks are just one point behind league leaders Swansea City.
Which players are closest to a first-team return?
Edwards and Kelman are now the players nearest to being available for selection from Charlton's injury list. Their full participation in training sessions marks a clear step forward in their recovery processes. The club's current injuries page lists several other sidelined players, including Billy Koumetio, Collins Sichenje, Kayne Ramsay, Matt Godden, and Nathaniel Chalobah. The return of Edwards and Kelman helps to thin out that group and offers Jones more options.
This development is particularly important as Charlton prepares for a challenging run of fixtures. The immediate focus is the upcoming match against QPR, but the schedule also includes a home game against Portsmouth on September 12th. Fans can track the team's fixtures as they look to build on their recent form of LDWWW.
Why was Tyreece Campbell substituted at Stoke?
Jones also provided clarity on the early withdrawal of winger Tyreece Campbell during the first half of Charlton's recent defeat at Stoke City. The manager explained the decision was made for multiple reasons. "TC’s sub was precautionary," Jones stated. "It was also a little bit of a tactical choice, but he was feeling a little bit of fatigue because of the games and the level he has played recently."
The substitution occurred with the game still theoretically alive, though Jones admitted the situation was "very difficult to come back from." He added that the coaching staff felt the need to look after a couple of players during that match, managing workloads across a demanding period. Campbell's absence from the upcoming squad is not expected to be long-term.
How does this affect Charlton's squad depth?
The returning players bolster areas where Charlton has been stretched. Having more fit players allows for greater tactical flexibility and helps manage the physical demands of the Championship. Jones now has more choices as he looks to solidify a defensive unit that has conceded seven times and to add attacking impetus beyond the six goals scored so far.
With the team positioned well in the standings, maintaining momentum is key. The returns come at an opportune moment, providing fresh legs for a squad that must navigate a packed schedule. Jones will be assessing his full squad options carefully before naming his team to face QPR.
Charlton Athletic's next challenge is a home match against 14th-placed Portsmouth on Saturday, September 12th, 2026.
