Lyle Taylor’s expected return at Middlesbrough will get headlines but Deji Oshilaja believes all of those who have stepped up during Charlton’s injury crisis deserves recognition.

Lee Bowyer’s squad has been stretched to the limit in recent weeks, so much so the Addicks boss could only name five players on the bench in the 3-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.

With 12 sidelined with injury and three falling foul of a virus in the squad, youngsters Nathan Harness, Alfie Doughty, Josh Davison and James Vennings, were all drafted in.

Getting his own first team start at Cardiff City at the age of 19, the now 26-year-old believes the youngsters are worthy of their place and will relish the opportunity as he did in South Wales.

“We’ve got a good squad, the boys who’ve been playing have been doing quite well,” Oshilaja said.

“Whoever does play they give 100% and you can’t ask for more than that.”

“Alfie, he’s been excellent in the three games he’s come on and he’s shown what he can do.

“James and Josh too.

“Everyone at the club in any position they’re asked to play, they give 100%.

“At 17 I went to Cardiff and played for the first team at 19, it’s not daunting, it’ more exciting, it’ll be the same for them.”

Bonne-chance

This Is Local London: Macauley BonneMacauley Bonne

One player who has taken his chance in the wake of Charlton’s injury crisis is Macauley Bonne.

The summer signing from Leyton Orient was expected to be the club’s third choice forward behind Taylor and Tomer Hemed, but with both out injured the 23-year-old has flourished, netting six goals so far this season including the consolation against Wednesday.

“Lyle is a great player, but Macca (Bonne) has come in and has been excellent as well.

“But if we can get Lyle back on the pitch it’ll be amazing.

“The boys up front have been good, and we’ve got great attacking options.

“It’s a case of keeping them fit.”