Parkinson is banking on his skipper to lead revival

Phil Parkinson is hoping skipper Mark Hudson's return from a hip injury will help lift his deflated Charlton side.

The 2-1 defeat to Burnley cut them six points adrift at the bottom of the Championship, but Hudson should be fit for tomorrow's clash with Bristol City.

Parkinson said: "There were a lot of encouraging signs - if we keep performing like that then we will have a good chance."

Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock is confident he can lead his side out of their mini-slump. The Eagles crashed to a fourth successive defeat, losing 1-0 to Blackpool, and Warnock said: "It will be easier in summer when we have got some people off the wage bill, but I am still the best bet for the club."

Watford expect to sign Inverness Caledonian Thistle midfielder Don Cowie today after suffering a 3-1 defeat at Wolves.

QPR midfielder Mikele Leigertwood is expecting a play-off charge following their 0-0 draw with Reading. He said: "If we put together a string of results, who knows?"