Nicky Ajose says Charlton players will back Lee Bowyer if he wants the Addicks job on a permanent basis.

Bowyer has been appointed caretaker manager until the end of the season after winning his first three games in charge.

He has introduced a new 4-4-2 diamond formation which is getting the best out of Ajose, Michal Zyro and Ben Reeves.

If Bowyer was to lead Charlton to the Championship, it would be hard for the new prospective owners to replace him.

Ajose, who has scored in his last two starts against today’s opponents Bristol Rovers, told News Shopper: “If Lee wants to take the job, I don't know if that’s something he wants, then the lads will be behind him. He’s had a great start.

“If he carries on winning games then he’ll make it simple for himself. At the end of the season, he can make that decision if he wants it or not.

“Lee’s come in, but we can’t underplay the role that Johnnie [Jackson] has played in this.

“Lee’s getting all the credit because he’s the caretaker manager, but John’s doing such good work in the video room, on the training pitch with the set-pieces and defending.”

MORE: Nicky Ajose breaks silence on Charlton exile - and is now loving life under Lee Bowyer

Ajose has only ever played at Wembley for England’s youth teams.

And he would love to get back there with Charlton, who currently occupy the last play-off spot.

Ajose, 26, said: “I played for England’s younger kids there. It would be nice to play there in the play-offs.

“Three weeks ago we drew at home to Fleetwood and it was a poor performance. People were writing off the season, we never did. We’re now back in the top six.

“I’m sure there will be points in the next seven games, we might drop out of it because of results, but it doesn't matter. As long as we’re there on May 5 then that’s all that matters.

“My Peterborough team won the Checkatrade Trophy at Wembley but I was cup tied so I couldn't play in it. I watched from the stands.

“Then I watched Swindon get beat by Preston in the play-off final - I was signing for Swindon in the summer.”

Click here to like our Charlton Facebook page