Johnnie Jackson admits Charlton will miss the “experience and ability” of injured Frenchman Alou Diarra.

The 34-year-old was due to play 45 minutes in a pre-season friendly at Welling United on Saturday but suffered a stress fracture in his foot.

Russell Slade fears Diarra will miss the start of the new season with the injury and Jackson insisted the news was a blow.

He said: “Alou is a key player for us, he’s very experienced and he brings that to the team.

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“He’s a leader on the pitch as well which we haven’t got loads of. His experience and ability will be a miss but I think we’ve got enough to help us out when instances like this happen.

“He’s a top player so he will be a miss but hopefully it’s not too bad. I’ve just spoken to him and I don’t think it’s anything too serious.

“I missed this game last year and you always feel like you’re behind. From my point of view I didn’t like not being involved and I’m sure Alou is the same.”

Triallists Lewis Buxton, Andrew Crofts, Alex Pike and Emmanuel Sonupe all featured for Charlton in the 4-1 thrashing at Welling as Nicky Ajose’s hat-trick condemned the Wings to defeat.

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As he was part of the Charlton second-half XI, Jackson was unable to watch most of the opening 45 minutes but has seen the players in training.

When asked about the triallists, Jackson said: “We didn’t see too much because we was getting changed.

“But I’ve seen them in training and I know Crofty and Lewis from playing against them.

“They are experienced guys that know the Football League so I’m sure they would be useful additions if they are given a chance.”

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