Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones sheds light on Matty Godden's absence

Last season's leading goalscorer underwent 'minor procedure' on knee

Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones has confirmed that last season’s top scorer Matty Godden underwent “minor” knee surgery in the summer.

The experienced frontman, who turned 34 at the end of last month, has not featured for the Addicks in pre-season.

Godden scored 22 goals in all competitions for the SE7-based side after arriving from Coventry City, including the winner in the second leg of the League One play-offs against Wycombe Wanderers which set up a Wembley showdown with Leyton Orient.

Picture: Kyle Andrews

The ex-Sky Blues sharpshooter clocked up 49 appearances.

Charlton have strengthened their striking options this summer with Charlie Kelman and Isaac Olaofe signed from QPR and Stockport County respectively.

Godden’s absence has been noted in the friendly programme with Luke Berry and Will Mannion also not playing a minute in any fixture before Saturday’s Championship curtain-raised against Watford at The Valley.

“He has had a minor procedure which has kept him out,” Jones told South London Sport: Charlton Athletic Edition, when asked about Godden’s prolonged absence. “He played through a lot of pain last year.