Charlton Athletic manager Lee Bowyer has revealed what he believes to be the key aspect to the Addicks' recent success, including last season's promotion-winning campaign.

This weekend sees the South Londoners clash with Preston North End at The Valley and Bowyer has talked up the importance of fitness in the modern game, especially to his own side.

“Last season, our fitness was a big part of why we got promotion," he told his pre-match press conference on Friday, reported by the club's official Twitter account.

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"It’s why we regularly finished the stronger side and got a lot of late goals.

"We had to improve stepping up this season and we have done. We keep going and keep fighting until the end."

The Addicks will come into the clash at the Valley in high spirits having stolen a late point against West Brom last time out to remain within two points of the top-six.

However, Alex Neil's North End will prove a tough opposition, currently sat in second place with 14 matches played, so the Addicks will need to be at their very best.

Bowyer also revealed on Friday that they will once again be without star striker Lyle Taylor for the match after he suffered a set-back in his recovery from a knee injury.

The verdict

This is a great insight from Bowyer and it is easy to see why it has been such a key factor in their success.

Charlton were not blessed with great squad depth last season yet they were the side who grew stronger as the season progressed, storming the play-offs as a result.

Those same ethics will be essential this time too as they look to retain their place in the Championship and rise as high as they can in the table.