Josh Magennis believes strong words from manager Russell Slade at half-time helped Charlton earn a point against Northampton Town.

The Cobblers took the lead at the Valley through Alex Revell, who played for Slade at Leyton Orient and Cardiff City.

But skipper Johnnie Jackson slotted home a second-half equaliser to get the Addicks’ season up and running.

Charlton were much improved after the break and Magennis admitted the team received some hairdryer treatment at the interval.

The striker, who joined the club last week, said: “The first-half was a bit jittery and a bit attack versus defence. We got a wee bit of hairdryer treatment at half-time.

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“We knew we had to show what we can do in the second-half, which we managed to do, especially for that 20 minute period when they couldn’t get out of their half.”

When asked about the half-time dressing down, Magennis added: “There was no screaming in anyone’s faces or anything like that.

“But we were told what was expected from us and what is expected when playing for Charlton.

“So we just rallied and went out and played how we knew we can play, and I think the fans appreciated that.”

Magennis became the Addicks’ eighth signing of the summer last week when he put pen to paper on a two-year deal in SE7.

The 25-year-old was delighted with the level of support the side received on Saturday and said it was up to the players to entertain the supporters.

“It was fantastic, the fans were great,” the former Kilmarnock star said.

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“We just need to keep giving them something to cheer about, they come and pay their money and expect to be entertained so it’s up to us to provide that service.

“There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes but we can only affect what’s happening on the pitch.

“We had a great reception during the warm-up and throughout the game. They are going to support us, especially if we do well for them.

“In the second-half we showed glimpses of what we can do as a team. We’re still bonding as there’s a lot of new players.

“But all the support I’ve had since I’ve signed has been fantastic.”

Magennis, a former youth team goalkeeper, has represented Northern Ireland 22 times and played three games at Euro 2016.

He said the experience in France was fantastic and insisted he feels fresh despite a busy summer schedule.

“The first game was Poland but I didn’t make an appearance there. Then I played against Ukraine, Germany and Wales,” Magennis said.

“It was a fantastic experience and pretty frantic. We were away from our families for six weeks so normality changes a bit. But I’m getting back into the routine now and getting to know the new lads.

“My fitness levels are fine. I only had about five days off over the summer but I played a couple of games for Kilmarnock in Scotland so I’ll be okay. A bit more match sharpness is all I need.”

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