Joe Gallen addresses whether a two-pronged strikeforce is here to stay at Portsmouth - and if it will face Plymouth

And according to Joe Gallen, it also remains the ‘favoured formation’ heading into Saturday’s visit of Plymouth.

Kenny Jackett recalled Ellis Harrison to partner John Marquis in attack at the Valley, while utilised a 4-4-2 system.

Although neither strikers found the net in the subsequent 3-1 success, the duo caused plenty of problems for the Addicks in an impressive team display.

The fourth-placed Blues now entertain Plymouth as they strive to put pressure on League One’s top two.

And Gallen admitted two centre-forwards operating in tandem could be retained.

Pompey’s assistant manager said: ‘In the previous games, we lost 4-0 to Hull and then to Lincoln.

‘In both games we probably didn’t create enough chances or have enough shots at their goal or get around their box too many times.

‘Against Lincoln, towards the end, with 10 men we did put them under pressure, but generally didn’t look too much of a threat even when 11 v 11.

‘So by putting two forwards up there, we’re looking to pass the ball forwards a bit earlier, either to feet or up to Ellis, or in behind. Let’s get bodies in the box in order to attack it.

‘That’s the reason for naming two out-and-out centre-forwards at Charlton. It’s to be more offensive, to try to create more chances and, ultimately, score more goals.

‘It worked very well. On the break it left it two v two at times, or three v two on occasions in the first half.

‘You would have to say it probably would be the favoured formation (against Plymouth) after such a good performance.

‘The manager will assess the opposition. Plymouth use three at the back with a wing-back system, which can be awkward at times when you’re trying to pass through them, create chances or even press.

‘So there is also potential for us to adjust again.’

The Blues have no additional injuries for tomorrow’s visit of Ryan Lowe’s side.

And that allows the option to retain a winning formula.

Gallen added: ‘This season we’ve played in a number of different ways, when previously we’ve normally played 4-3-3 because it suited the players we have.

‘It is open for us to adjust to that, but it’s also open to us to put two forwards up there.

‘We can change the formation when required – and I think that’s a strength of this season.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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