Freddie Ladapo has characterized his transition to Charlton Athletic as “confusing,” but he believes his midweek goal against Lincoln City demonstrates his potential.
The Ipswich Town loanee scored in the second half, his first since joining the League One club.
Chuks Aneke had the ball at his feet before it was taken by Ladapo, who sent a shot past Imps goalie Lukas Jensen.
When asked to run through the finish, he told CharltonTV that it was a little blurry from memory. “Chuks did exceptionally well when he came on. He took up the ball and was genuinely yelling for me to leave it, but being a selfish striker, I was never going to leave it.
“I took a few touches and hit it. I could see it go right past the goalkeeper.
“I thanked Chuks.” We both came on and had an impact in the game. We were both hungry for success, and it was helpful to understand the point.
“We can’t be selfish right now (about the eventual result) because so many things haven’t gone our way. All we can take away from the game is that we laid good groundwork for the next week.
“The mood is definitely up after last week. We were all disappointed, especially myself – I could’ve done a lot better.”
Ladapo is adjusting to a different manager in Nathan Jones after Michael Appleton, head coach when he was brought in, was sacked.
“It has been confusing, to be honest with you,” said the former Crystal Palace forward, when asked about acclimatising to life at Charlton. “It’s a change of things and a change for me as well – it’s a new club and a new system, a new style of play. It has taken some adjusting but right now, with the gaffer, things are really settling.
“That goal was a little taster of things that I can do. I’m very happy to show people a little bit of that. Hopefully I can keep building my fitness and sharpness.
“It was a special goal for me, my family, my missus, and my little one – I believe she was sleeping when the goal went in. I’m sure the ruckus from everyone jolted her awake.
“It was also special for the supporters, who needed something to cheer about.
“Me and Chuks hit it off right away, perhaps because we already knew each other before I arrived.
“Yes (there is genuine attacking talent in the squad). We have Alfie (May) on 20 goals; as you can see, there are many competent and seasoned strikers. There are also some talented young players, which is fantastic for the club.”
Leave a Reply