Charlton Athletic vs Peterborough United - Jason Pearce blow for Charlton

Charlton have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the clash with Peterborough after defender Jason Pearce was ruled out for three months with a groin injury.

Centre-back Pearce underwent surgery on Tuesday after scans revealed he had torn an adductor tendon challenging for a header in the Addicks' goalless draw at Bradford last weekend.

Striker Lee Novak hurt his knee in the midweek FA Cup defeat at MK Dons and is likely to be ruled out as he awaits the results of a scan.

However, goalkeeper Declan Rudd resumed full training this week and defender Harry Lennon is closing in a return to action following a groin injury.

Peterborough manager Grant McCann is expected to name an unchanged side as the travel to the Valley.

The news comes despite star striker Marcus Maddison recovering from an ankle injury which kept him out of last weekend's 5-2 win over Chesterfield.

McCann is reluctant to change a winning side and has no fresh injury or suspension concerns which means Maddison is likely to start on the bench.

Jermaine Anderson remains a long-term absentee due to a knee injury.