Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones hinted at frustration after Chuks Aneke’s red card marred their 4-0 triumph over Wycombe Wanderers on Easter Monday.
The big striker was dismissed for an off-the-ball clash with Wycombe’s Luke Leahy, with referee Will Finnie opting to show only Aneke a straight red card. The decision could have major implications for Charlton’s promotion push, with Aneke now facing a three-match ban that would include any League One play-off semi-final first leg should the Addicks qualify.
Jones Displeased With Decision
Jones, who watched the incident unfold from the dugout, was cautious with his words when questioned post-match but suggested there was more to the altercation than the officials had seen.
Jones said: “I had the perfect view and an even better view now on TV. There is more on that, I can promise you.”
Speaking separately to Charlton TV, the Addicks boss added that he would be seeking clarification from referee Finnie over the controversial decision.
The sending-off took the shine off a superb team performance from Charlton, who secured a dominant win courtesy of goals from Lloyd Jones, Luke Berry, Matty Godden and Karoy Anderson. It moved the South Londoners up to fourth in the League One standings, closing the gap on the automatic promotion places.
With striker Miles Leaburn already ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a quad injury, losing Aneke would be a significant blow to Charlton’s attacking options. Compounding the situation further is the uncertainty surrounding Aneke’s future, with the forward out of contract at the end of the campaign.
Meanwhile, Wycombe boss Mike Dodds described his side’s defensive performance as “embarrassing” and promised to conduct an “autopsy” after a result that saw the Chairboys slip out of the automatic promotion spots.
Writer’s View
Charlton Athletic’s impressive victory at Wycombe Wanderers should have been a celebratory moment, but Chuks Aneke’s controversial dismissal has cast a shadow over proceedings. Nathan Jones’ guarded but telling comments hint that Charlton may yet contest the red card. With the Addicks now well-placed for a play-off berth, losing key attackers could complicate their promotion dream unless the situation is resolved quickly and in their favour.
