Alou Diarra says protests from Charlton fans are not having a negative effect on the team. 

Stress balls were thrown on to the pitch in the first five seconds of the Addicks’ 2-1 win over Birmingham on Saturday - and play was temporarily stopped.

This latest stunt from Charlton supporters came after a series of other demonstrations took place last month, including a mock funeral and a 74th-minute walkout.

Diarra, who starred in the second successive victory at the Valley, admits the protests in the opening stages of the match did not affect the team.

He said: “Three weeks ago we had a similar situation but everybody stayed professional and focused on the game. 

“Fans can show they are disappointed about the situation but we stay professional and keep going.

“I don’t think so [the protests having a negative effect on the team] because we won against Middlesbrough and we won against Birmingham  - you know, we’re only focused on the game. 

“What is around you, is around you but we’re on the pitch and we have to show a bit of faith.”

Jorge Teixeira’s last-gasp goal gave Charlton three valuable points, keeping them in touch with the clubs above them.

Diarra is pleased to be back playing but reveals he is soldiering through with a “crack” in his right foot.

The 34-year-old was crocked for two months but returned in late February.

The France international added: “I’m still feeling pain - I have a crack in my right foot but I have to give everything until the end of the season. It’s not easy but I’m feeling better. 

“I was frustrated to miss previous games because they were important for us and I tried to come back quickly. 

“We still have a chance to stay in the Championship and we have to show character like we did against Birmingham. 

“It won’t be easy but if we show the same spirit and character then we can do it.”

Diarra is refusing to get carried away with Charlton’s recent win and will not set a points tally for the end of the season.

Next up is Ipswich at Portman Road tomorrow, followed by another trip, to QPR on Saturday.

Diarra said: “It’s very tight and I hope it won't be too late - we have to keep going. 

“Tuesday is another game and another opponent and we’ll see. We’re happy but this is not enough because we have to now prepare for the next match.

“I don’t know [how many points we will need], we just need to win the games - we have to be focused on this.”