Charlton Doesn't Mind Central Role

Last updated : 22 September 2003 By Mark Heys
Bolton Wanderers defender Simon Charlton has said he doesn't mind playing in a central defensive role after putting in a starring performance alongside Emerson Thome at the heart of the Wanderers defence in Saturday's goalless draw with Newcastle United to snuff out the threat of Alan Shearer and Craig Bellamy.

The 31-year old former Birmingham City player is usually used to playing in the left back position but an injury to Florent Laville meant a recall to the side for Charlton following a knee injury in the more unfamiliar role of centre back.

"It wasn't a bad forward line to come up against on your first game back but I thoroughly enjoyed it" he told the clubs official site

He also revealed how he has been waiting for a chance to return to the side following his knee operation in the summer during which time Ricardo Gardner has made the left back role his own with a string of impressive displays.

"I've felt fit and I've been knocking on the gaffer's door for a fortnight telling him that I want to play" added the Yorkshireman

He didn't however give to much away as to whether or not he would consider an extended stay in the middle of the defence

"Well, I'm not looking that far ahead. I don't mind playing there. It might lull strikers into a false sense of security because of my size" he joked