Euell transfer delayed

The projected transfer of Jason Euell to Birmingham City for £1.5m has hit an unspecified hitch and discussions on personal terms have not begun. However, they are expected to resume before long.

The Addickted have given a qualified welcome to the signing of Marcus Bent from Everton for £2m, rising to £2.5m subject to appearances etc. The striker was a prolific goal scorer at both Sheffield United and Ipswich, but he's not scored a lot of goals at Everton (or at Blackburn previously). However, Everton have not scored or created a lot as a team for many years. Their success last year was based on not conceding and winning 1-0 all the time.

Alongside his former Ipswich partner, Bent 2 may well start hitting the back of the net (he is cup tied). Bartlett is a fading force, even though he hares energetically all over the pitch, but defensive competence is not what one is really looking for in a striker. The signing does raise question marks about Bothroyd's future, while there must still be hopes that Lisbie will find his level in a Championship club. As for Jeffers ...

Marcus Bent is someone that Charlton can afford. Hopefully he can develop into an excellent partner for his namesake, allowing more regular use of 4-4-2 at home and even away if the partnership works.