A chance to get points on the board

We weren't expecting a relegation six pointer this early in the season and Crewe will be looking to get their campaign under way: https://www.castrust.org/2021/08/a-good-time-to-be-playing-crewe/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-good-time-to-be-playing-crewe

Four Four Two forecast a 20th place finish noting 'With key men departing, last season's brave swashbucklers must limit the sense of transition.'    The fan file contributor admits that the turnover of players is the big talking point, but forecasts a 10th place finish.

Crewe went down 0-1 at home to Accrington Stanley after tame defending from a corner.    Alex boss Dave Artell admitted: 'We didn't get going until it was too late again, and that is a habit that has to be broken.  But it is a virtually new team and we are a work in progress.'

Crewe is the world leading manufacturer of ice cream vans.   Let's hope they won't be ringing their chimes as they leave The Valley this afternoon.

Promotion versus relegation clash

Crewr boss David Artell says they know the threats that Charlton pose (not least Chuks Aneke) and reckon that the Addicks will provide a tough test for the opening game of the League One season this afternoon: https://www.crewealex.net/news/2020/september/we-know-the-threats-charlton-pose/

Four Four Two reckon that the club promoted from League Two will finish 15th.   They note, 'Alex were promoted with a team filled with academy graduates playing attacking football.'   The fan file contributor expects a midtable finish.

'The fans' opinion of the gaffer is that they love him.  Big Dave has proved over time that he is completely right for our club.  His passion is legendary.'

10 per cent of the club is now owned by fans and they have a representative on the board.

Charlton have a 100 per cent win record at Gresty Road and have never conceded a goal there: https://www.castrust.org/2020/09/meanwhile-theres-a-football-match/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=meanwhile-theres-a-football-match

Gilbey and Washington start for Charlton, as does Barker.   Aneke and Williams are on the bench: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/54038007

Lee Bowyer makes two changes from the side which progressed through to the next round of the Carabao Cup having beaten Swindon Town last weekend, with Washington and Gilbey starting for the Addicks in place of Erhun Oztumer and James Vennings. Jonny Williams makes his return to the bench alongside Bowyer's latest addition, Dylan Levitt.

Having impressed in his last two outings, including netting a goal in the aforementioned win against Swindon, Barker remains in the side while Jason Pearce continues sidelined for the Addicks through injury.

Ben Amos once again starts in goal with Barker, Deji Oshilaja, George Lapslie and Ben Purrington making up the backline.

If Bowyer continues with the same shape, Pratley will continue his role in midfield alongside Gilbey and Jake Forster-Caskey. Alfie Doughty, Macauley Bonne and Washington will lead the Charlton front line.