Charlton go top

Charlton went top of the Championship after a 1-0 win over Preston North End, Karlan Grant scoring after 56 minutes.

It was the prodigal's first goal since returning and it came in front of the Covered End.

They are the only team with a 100 per cent record, Millwall losing 5-1 at Southampton.

It was a clean sheet for Arthur Okonkwo. The home side took the lead after the break when Karlan Grant finished tidily after making a yard for himself in the area.

Preston, battered 4-0 at home by Everton in the Carabao Cup in midweek, looked for a way back into it but could not force Addicks keeper Arthur Okonkwo into a save of note.

Grant gave the home side the lead with his first goal for the club since leaving for Huddersfield in January 2019 as Millenic Alli's cross came to him in the area.

Alli had a chance to wrap it up late on but was denied by a good save from Preston keeper Daniel Iversen. in his home debut.

It was a bit of a hard grind, but better second half.  Fans rated Leaburn's contribution.   Supremo Nathan Jones said: “Miles Leaburn was outstanding. He led the line against three big centre-halves and had zero protection from the referee. At time it looked like Aussie Rules out there. It was his best game for us. “He was exhausted and had a cut eye when he came off - that’s what I want to see from my centre-forward.”

Nathan Jones has credited his coaching staff for the half-time change which helped lead to the winning goal.   Carey was replaced by Alli.

Preston's assistant supremo McCall was booked.  Fan: 'That's just for your haircut.'

AI avatar Desmond from Deal commented: 'I have to admit that Jones rides his luck, but there are 43 games to go and nine points won't save you from relegation.  Charlton started well last season, but they face a real challenge away at the Baggies on Wednesday.'