Bowyer: We can overcome nerves and perform

Lee Bowyer has backed his Charlton Athletic players to overcome their Wembley nerves and impress against Sunderland.

The Addicks sealed their place in the League One playoff final courtesy of a penalty shoot-out triumph over Doncaster Rovers, and will faceoff against the Black Cats on Sunday.

It was far from a vintage performance from Bowyer’s troops on Friday, as they fell to a 3-2 defeat on the night in what was a pressurised environment.

And while that pressure will only be drastically increased at Wembley, the Charlton boss believes his side will battle through a ‘nervy’ start against Sunderland.

“I thought they coped really well,” said Bowyer, speaking to London News Online. “I thought they were nervy a few times in possession – normally we pass a lot better than that. “We gave away the ball more than we have in a long time. “But I’m sure once they walk on the pitch and take it all in, I’m sure they’ll be nervy the first few minutes, but it ends up being a game of football. “Nothing really changes.” And the Charlton boss, who has excelled in his first managerial role, believes the significance of his side reaching Wembley should not be understated.

The Addicks have blossomed despite a long-running issue over the ownership of the club, with fans at odds with the manner in which Belgian businessman Roland Duchatelet governs the Valley outfit.

He took over in January 2014, since when there have been numerous demonstrations against him.

But Bowyer added: “What we’ve achieved is massive – so big.

“No-one tipped us to be in the top six and now we’re going to Wembley.

“We’ve filled the stadium, which hasn’t been filled for so many years.

“The job that me, my staff and players are doing is really good. I’m emotional and very proud.”