Lyle Taylor will be the name on most people’s lips after his superb hat-trick inspired Charlton to a 5-0 win over Mansfield, but not Lee Bowyer’s.

The Charlton manager, although admitting he’s ‘over the moon’ with his star striker, held praise for the man who bagged his side’s fifth of the night.

“It’s the best game Nicky (Ajose) has had for us since I’ve been in charge,” said Bowyer.

“He ran in behind, he fought, chased the ball down, he did everything properly for me today.

“He got rewarded with his goal, he deserved that.”

READ: Bowyer's reaction to 5-0 win

Ajose’s goal came in injury time after beating the onrushing keeper to a long ball before passing it in to the net to cap off a fine display from the 27-year-old.

The striker also set up two of Taylor’s strikes which didn’t go unnoticed by the Charlton boss.

“You’ve got to create chances. The third one, that’s just him (Lyle Taylor), but the first two you have to praise Nicky.

“How many times do we get in to that position but don’t pick the right pass?!”

READ: Player Ratings from Charlton's 5-0 win

Ajose hasn’t featured regularly for the Addicks this season and his last appearance was in the 2-2 draw at Luton in September. Bowyer said that he is now back in the frame to return to the league XI and issued what he wants from his winger going forward.

“He needs to work hard out of possession, get in behind, hold on to the ball, fight for the ball and take your chance when you get them. He’s just done that.

“The game is simple. If he can do that I can then look at the bench and trust you, if I put you on I know you’re going to give 100% out of possession. That’s the first thing you should give and Nicky has done that today so he’s done himself no harm today.”

Charlton are back in league action this weekend as they welcome Bristol Rovers to the Valley knowing a win will keep them in the play-off spots.