Ricardo Vaz Te believes Charlton striker Igor Vetokele is vital to the club’s survival hopes.

The Angola international has been injured since scoring in the 4-1 win at Rotherham - the last time the Addicks tasted victory, just under a month ago.

Vaz Te, who left SE7 at the beginning of February, says if Vetokele and the squad stay injury-free then the team can fight off relegation.

He told News Shopper: “I really, really, really hope they can stay up.

News Shopper:

Igor Vetokele​

“I actually think they can survive, they have the ingredients, they just have to be a bit lucky with the injuries.

“I know Igor has missed a few games and he’s vital to the club's hopes of staying in the division.

“Hopefully, with everyone fit, the players can steer them out of the situation.

“My teammates were amazing and I’ve kept in touch with some of them - it was a really good dressing room.”

MORE: Former Charlton striker Ricardo Vaz Te reveals reason behind Valley exit

Since Vetokele’s absence from the team, Charlton have lost three of their last four games and are seven points from safety.

Addicks boss Jose Riga will hope to have him back in the squad when they take on Reading at the Valley today.