Charlton fans were urged to give new signing Josh Parker ‘a chance’ after his move from Gillingham on Thursday.

Lee Bowyer brought in the 28-year-old striker on a six-month deal from the Gills in a bid to fill the void left by Karlan Grant who joined Huddersfield on Wednesday.

With Bowyer open about wanting to bring in two strikers by the close of the transfer window, he had this message for Addick fans who may have been underwhelmed by the deadline day activity.

“Give him a chance,” said the Charlton boss.

“We’ll improve him for sure.

“I like to think we improve all our players so give him a chance.

“I guarantee he’s going to work hard for the club otherwise he wouldn’t be here.

“He knows the situation and that we are going for promotion and he’s over the moon to be part of that.

“I’m sure he’ll do well, and I’m sure he’ll score goals.”

READ: Bowyer on spending Karlan Grant money

Parker arrives from the Gills having scored four goals in 21 appearances this season and comes on the back of Head of Recruitment Steve Gallen’s recommendation.

“Steve knows his qualities and we know what he can bring us.

“I trust Steve, and if you look at the recruitment so far he hasn’t let us down yet has he?!”

Bowyer admitted they did have another player at the training ground ready to sign, but it fell through due to ’things out of (our) control.’

The manager remained upbeat however and automatic promotion is still very much the aim for at the Valley this season.

“I’m always confident because I believe in the players here.

“The fans are behind us home n away and as a package we are very good.

“Does it make it more difficult because Karlan has gone? Maybe, but you don’t known Josh may come in and score ten goals between now and the end of the season.

“Other clubs have spent money but sometimes that may not be a good thing.”

Parker is thought to be make his Charlton bow this weekend as the club travel to Fleetwood.