What Charlton's manager couldn't believe about ex-Sunderland, Celtic, Cardiff & Bristol City defender

Lee Bowyer couldn’t believe his luck when he landed ex-Sunderland defender Adam Matthews for nothing this summer.
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The 27-year-old had been released by the Black Cats at the end of last season but agreed a 12-month deal with the Addicks last week, becoming the Championship club’s 15th signing during this window.

Matthews was an unused Sunderland substitute as the Wearsiders lost to Bowyer’s side after a last-minute Patrick Bauer goal handed the victory to Charlton in the League One play-off final at Wembley.

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Charlton’s boss, though, was made up after capturing the former Celtic man. “I can’t believe it [that he was still available],” said Bowyer. “He is only 27 and has still got so much more to offer.

Adam Matthews in action for Sunderland last season.Adam Matthews in action for Sunderland last season.
Adam Matthews in action for Sunderland last season.

“I’m sure working with Jacko [Johnnie Jackson] that he is going to get better, for sure. I couldn’t believe our luck he was on a free.

“He is another good signing. He is a Welsh international and is going to bring us something different. He is definitely going to give us more going forward – his end product is very, very good.

“He has experience at club level and internationally. For me, it is a no brainer. He came in and impressed us straight away.

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“We have got to get him fit but there are still 40-odd games to go. Adam is definitely going to be important, sooner rather than later.

“He is playing in the U23s [yesterday] to get some minutes into him. He played in a behind-closed-doors game the other week and impressed in that as well.