Returning Jason Pearce, who was recently out injured for four months, spoke to The London News Online and local press, making clear that he found it “frustrating” to watch Charlton struggle while he recovered.
Jason Pearce, a stalwart defender in the Football League, has led and captained sides at the likes of Bournemouth, Leeds United, Portsmouth, and had a vital role last season in leading Wigan Athletic to the League One title.
Back in December against Bradford City, Jason Pearce, ruptured his groin jumping for a header with James Hanson, but when he came back down, he was unable to get back up. The injury ruled out the experienced centre-back for approximately four months.
However, Jason Pearce has returned to the starting line-up in the last two games against MK Dons and Southend United. On the weekend, Charlton Athletic secured a 2 – 1 win against the promotion chasing Shrimpers, adding three points to their tally, putting the Addicks five points clear from the drop zone.
After the game, Pearce spoke to The London News Online and local press, where he made clear that he found it frustrating and struggled to watch Charlton freefall down the Sky Bet League One table.
“It was frustrating,” said the returning defender.
“Nothing against the lads who came in, they gave their all. But personally, it was my first bad injury. For four months it was tough watching, I want to be out there playing. It’s been a long time and I’m glad I can come back and help the team get over the line today and get three points. I’ll be able to help the team for the rest of the season to make sure we stay in the league.
“Before the game, we knew how big it was. Southend are in the play-offs on merit and they’re a good team. We knew it would be a tough game today but every man stood up and was counted and gave their all. It was great to come off the pitch and see the fans clapping you off after a good performance and a good victory.
“The gaffer made it clear to us that if you have a little setback, keep going and working hard for each other. We showed that today with a really gritty performance. As we came off the pitch everyone was so tired but we were delighted to get the three points.
“I loved it, it’s exactly the sort of game I like. I like to have a battle and make sure I come out on top. It was quite an even battle today but we had players around us if we made a mistake, or lost a battle – there was always someone covering up behind them. That was for everyone on the pitch. It was pleasing looking everyone in the eye after the game because you knew they had worked their socks off.”
The returning defender, also discussed Charlton’s final run of fixtures against teams below them, emulating the words Karl Robinson spoke at his press conference, which emphasised any relegation would be at the fault of the team.
“You look at the fixtures that we’ve got and they’re all the teams around us. Every game is going to be like a cup final. We’re going into each game to try and win. It’s just one win today, we’re not getting carried away. We’re pleased with the performance and it’s something to build on now.”
