Charlton v Colchester

DARREN AMBROSE is set to return for Charlton at home to bottom club Colchester on New Year’s Day.

The midfielder has not played since the 1-1 home draw against Hull on December 22 after sustaining a groin injury.

Manager Alan Pardew explained: “He’s got a groin problem which we believe affected his last couple of performances when he was below par.

“We rested him in the hope it will clear up and that he will be ready to face Colchester.”

But left-back Grant Basey, who underwent surgery early in December for a hernia problem, is ill and was sent home from the training ground this week.

Certain to start against Colchester is central defender Patrick McCarthy who thrust himself back into first team contention with outstanding performances against Norwich on Boxing Day and at Leicester.

“He found himself out of the side now he’s back and he’s been brilliant,” said Pardew. “ He was our best player against Leicester.”