Charlton Athletic continue to defy the odds in League One, battling away for a promotion spot when the off-field troubles should be holding them back.

Lee Bowyer had no real managerial experience before taking over the Addicks, but he's blended an effective side, slick going forward and tough at the back. They're not the finished article and are still prone to bad results, but in the main they're one of the genuine promotion hopefuls.

He's had little budget to work with, bringing in Lyle Taylor on a free transfer and pairing him with youngster Karlan Grant, but between them they've got the goals necessary for a promotion push.

A recent injury to loan player Josh Cullen will hit them hard, but with the transfer window approaching Bowyer will be hoping to strengthen his hand ready for the second half of the season.

Here are three players from League Two who could seriously boost his promotion hopes.

Szmodics is an attacking midfielder from Colchester who wouldn't need to move far to join up with Bowyer's side.

He's quick, creative and is developing his reputation with John McGreal's side.

He's scored six in 19 matches this season, but was unable to stop his side's exit from the FA Cup against Accrington yesterday.

25-year old Winchester only joined Forest Green in the summer, but he's proving he can perform at the right end of League Two after a couple of seasons with Cheltenham.

If Bowyer is looking for a Cullen replacement, Winchester could be the man. He's got a certain steel to his play, but fits the passing ethic that Bowyer likes to a tee.

O'Toole looks accomplished and assured in the middle of the park for Northampton Town and has been a key player in their climb up the table since Keith Curle arrived.

He shouldn't be in League Two but at 30-years old his time to shine might be coming to an end.

One last swansong would be wholly deserved and Bowyer's side would benefit from his experience as much as anything.