Jake Forster-Caskey came in for some high praise from his Charlton boss following his left wing-back display at Fulham.

The 25-year-old started just his second game of the season in the 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage on Saturday in problem position for the Addicks.

With recognised left-back Ben Purrington joining long term absentee Lewis Page on the sideline, Forter-Caskey was asked to fill the void by Lee Bowyer.  

Having spent the majority of last season in the treatment room the 25-year-old midfielder impressed his boss with his range of passing and his contribution to their side’s opener.

“What a pass!” Bowyer said of his raking cross picking out Chris Solly at the back post.

“It wasn’t just a hopeful cross, he’s picked him out.

“Solly had the awareness to nod it down for Conor arriving late to the box again, which we knew would cause them problems.

“Our two left-backs are injured, we had to change it up.

“I think it’s the first time he’s ever played there, and he looked well.

“He’s not played much but he’s worked on his fitness and he’ll get there.”

Praise for Forster-Caskey wasn’t unjust, contributing in keeping the usually lively Anthony Knockaert quiet for the game’s entirety.

So much so that Scott Parker changed formation to get the winger into the tie, an occurrence Lee Bowyer is rare for the home side.

“They don’t do that for.

“But they had to because they knew they weren’t going to break us down.

“Fair play to Scott he recognised that and changed it, and they were probably the better team second half.”

Time for Recovery

First choice left-back Purrington limped off in Wednesday night’s defeat by Swansea with a groin injury, adding to the calf injury he was already carrying.

Bowyer admitted he felt the international break next weekend has come at the right time for his side as they look to get several key figures out of his treatment room.

“We’ve got seven injuries and need time to get them back.

“Another two weeks will have gone past for Lyle (Taylor.)

“Hopefully by the time it’s over he may be out of the brace.

“We’ve got no left backs, both injured, so hopefully Ben will be back before the next game against Derby.

“It’ll also give the lads who go Saturday-Wednesday-Saturday time to recharge.”