Hermann's harsh words

Hermann Hreidarsson today admitted that Charlton must improve dramatically if they are to qualify for Europe this season.

Alan Curbishley's side are still in the hunt for a UEFA Cup spot but will receive some harsh words in training this week following Saturday's 2-2 draw with Manchester City.

A last-minute equaliser from Chris Perry gave Charlton the share of the points but Hreidarsson acknowledged they were fortunate to come away with anything.

He said: "We really need to improve and are not going to win games playing like that. We're very disappointed with ourselves and the next game can't come soon enough. The manager wasn't happy with us and we wouldn't expect him to be.

"We can bounce back and won't dwell on this game. We will work hard in training this week and start to put things right. We still believe we can qualify for Europe and will keep fighting until the end."

Curbishley described Charlton's first-half showing as "abysmal".