Freddie Ladapo has characterised 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 seized by Ladapo, who struck a shot past Imps custodian 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 yelled for me to leave it, but as a greedy striker, I was never going to leave it for him!
“I took a few touches and hit it. I could watch it go right past the custodian.
“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 vibe is much better following last week. We were all disappointed, particularly myself; I could have done much better.”
Ladapo is adjusting to a new manager, Nathan Jones, after Michael Appleton, the head coach when he was brought in, was fired.
“It has been confusing, to be honest with you,” remarked the former Crystal Palace forward when asked about adjusting to life at Charlton. “It’s a shift for both the club and me; it’s a new system, a new style of play. It took some adjusting, but with the gaffer, things are now settling.
“That goal was just a taste of what I am capable of doing. I’m delighted to show people a little piece of it. Hopefully, I can continue to improve 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