Charlton Athletic’s season will be running into the month of May as they prepare for a play-off battle against some strong teams.

Whilst Doncaster appear to be favourites for sixth, Charlton will surely finish fifth and set up a huge two-legged clash with either Sunderland or Portsmouth.

It’s looking likely that the Black Cats will be the opposition for Lee Bowyer’s men as they hunt a place in the second-tier next season. If they make it, it will be a real story of success against adversity.

Their off-field problems have been well documented, but the development on the field has belied their troubles. Fans have got an exciting set of players to watch, with young talent such as Joe Aribo, seasoned professionals like Johnny Williams and of course, the thrilling Lyle Taylor.

Not only have they assembled a good squad on a much smaller budget than some of their rivals, but they’re playing nice football too. That’s all down to one man; bad-boy turned thinking man Lee Bowyer.

It’s fair to say Bowyer had a chequered playing career, always talented but never far away from controversy. He left the game upon retirement and went to run a fishing lake in France.

His time at the side of his lake has mellowed him and the man we see in the dugout today is far removed from the stereotypical imagine we have of him as a player.

He’s pensive, tactically aware and very measured in his interviews. He’s an exciting young manager who, if he wants it, could have a big future in the game. Working against adversity and still putting together a competitive side is too his credit.

However, his contract is up in the summer and yet, owner Roland Duchatelet has not made a fresh offer. His first option was described as ‘different’ and seemingly rejected, but since then there’s been nothing fresh coming his way.

Whether they’re selling the club or not, the owners must tie down Bowyer to a new deal. The club’s value could increase hugely if he remains in place and his squad does too.

If they fail to acquire his services for next season, their product will surely lose value and become even harder to sell than it is now.

For the fans, their only ray of hope is represented by the former YTS prospect turned manager and they too will be hoping for good news in the coming weeks.