Darren Pratley starred in the middle of a back three in the record 8-0 win over Stevenage earlier this month in the Football League Trophy.

The 33-year-old midfielder then played as one half of a centre back pairing against Oxford United on Tuesday, and this will add confidence to the fans of Charlton that Pratley has a couple of seasons left in him yet.

After the game, Lee Bowyer, his manager, said: “I think he could nick another two-three years playing there.

“He’s an experienced player, reads the game well. You get more time on the ball there. He puts his body on the line and blocks stuff. He’s good in the air, not slow."

Pratley has been known as a midfielder throughout his career but struggled for regular minutes as he entered the latter stage of his career.

But in defence, he could play for another two seasons at least.

Bowyer is right when he says about how players get more time on the ball at the back. Pratley is obviously very adequate with the ball at his feet and this can help Charlton build attacks well.

The Addicks are 11th in League One and have suffered an indifferent run of form in the last month where they cannot get a run of wins going.

Despite this, Bowyer’s side are fancied for a play-off spot come the end of the season.

With Pratley now functioning in this new role, he can use his experience and talents on the ball to help build a solid foundation in the Charlton side.

He is a very good League One player, and if he continues to adapt well to his new role, he could use this to both his own advantage and help Charlton achieve their goals.