Karl Robinson wants to sign three players in next month’s transfer window.

Charlton have been decimated by injuries during the first half of the season.

And nine first-team players missed the 3-1 defeat to Southend today, a game where Robinson only named six substitutes.

He told News Shopper: “We know we need three players in January but we’ve still got nine players injured. But I don't want to use it as an excuse.

“We've got that many players injured and it’s hard. I’m looking behind me and I only brought two subs on today because I’m thinking ‘hang on, who’s going to make a difference?’

“I’m not going to put a young player on the bench who doesn't deserve it.

“You have to play well for the Under-18s, Under-23s, and then if there’s a space on the bench, you'll get it to make you a better player.

“If they're not performing well and not doing the right things, I’m not going to put a young player on the bench just to say ‘look what we’re doing with young players’.

“It’s poor development. I’d rather go with one less on the bench. I look behind me and I’m just a bit trapped at the moment.”