This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Charlton Athletic get back into league action this weekend following the international break, when Lee Bowyer's side entertain Birmingham City at the Valley, with the Addicks currently second in the table, just two points behind leaders Swansea City.

Plenty of players have excelled so far this season for Charlton, with summer addition Tom Lockyer proving to be one of the shrewdest acquisitions, having arrived on a free-transfer following his exit from Bristol Rovers on the completion of his contract this summer.

So is it fair to say Lockyer is looking like one of the transfer bargains of the summer?

We discuss........

George Dagless

"Absolutely.

"I was a little bit surprised that the Addicks went for him as the replacement for Patrick Bauer because it was a bit of a risk, but he has proven that any worries needn't have happened.

"The defender has slotted in seamlessly into Charlton's back-line and has been another example of Lee Bowyer knowing exactly what he wants from the market and getting it to work.

"I expect him to continue to shine for the men from south London for the rest of the season."

Alfie Burns

“It’s maybe a little bit early to be calling Lockyer a bargain, but, as it did at the time, it’s looking a very good freebie.

“Lockyer had built up a wealth of experience during his time with Bristol Rovers, and for a 24-year-old to already have almost 250 league appearances under his belt is invaluable.

“In Lockyer, Charlton have signed a youngster in terms of a centre-back, who also has great experience in the lower leagues.

“And, with the defender hitting the ground running with high-flying Charlton, he’s looking a shrewd addition.

“On the basis of what we’ve seen so far, we might be raving about Lockyer by the time May comes around.”

Ned Holmes

“At this moment, I’d say yes, he is.

“The defender arrived on a free transfer from Bristol Rovers and has stepped straight into Charlton’s starting line up.

“Lockyer has look solid and assured for the Addicks and helped them climb to second in the Championship.

“At 24, he should continue to develop and become even better over the next few years.

“Early indications are that the addition of the Wales international was a sensational bit of business.”