CHARLTON new boy Leon McKenzie finally made his debut for the Addicks against Oldham on Saturday – and the veteran striker is eager to build on his lively cameo.

The former Coventry and Norwich man ended six weeks of injuries and rust since arriving at the Valley on deadline day to a great reception from the home supporters.

And McKenzie feels that his main fitness worries are now behind him as he seeks to reward the fans’ encouragement with some goals.

He told the press after the game: “It’s been a little bit frustrating but I got on the bench today and felt pretty sharp when I came on – we didn’t get a goal unfortunately but there were a lot of positives.

“It’s only really this week that I’ve got back into training again. I’ve been doing a lot of strength stuff and we just felt that I wasn’t quite ready when I signed but the physios have been brilliant.

“It’s just a matter of getting some games under my belt now and hopefully get a couple of goals along the way.

“I know that once I get that sort of match fitness, I’m capable of getting more goals and I think that I’ve proved it throughout my career and I feel that there’s goals in the team.

“Unfortunately it’s going to be quite frustrating because teams want to beat whoever’s at the top so you’re going to have to take some draws now and then.

“But hopefully the goals will be flowing again soon and I’d love to be a part of that.”

The hero’s welcome McKenzie received from the Valley faithful appeared to provide extra justification to the local lad’s decision to join Phil Parkinson’s promotion charge.

He added: “My reception was fantastic, and it must be that reputation I carry with me that at the end of the day I’ll do my best whether I’m coming on or I’m starting.

“I gave a good account of myself, and I might not score every week but I’ll try to make a big impact in what I’m doing and it was really fantastic of the fans for me to get that reception today.

“It’s a massive club who should not be in the position they are but they are, it’s a lovely opportunity for me to come back home as I’m from South London anyway, and it’s an opportunity that’s come for me and I want to do well.

“I’m 31 now and I’d love to get my third promotion, and if that can be with Charlton then so be it.

“I’ve always looked after myself but I’ve had some real bad luck with injuries so it’s one of them things that you’re either not going to come back from or you’re going to come back stronger.

“I’m not here to disrupt anything but to make a stronger addition to the side and make that impact when needed, and I think I can do that.”