Constant goal threat: Charlton Athletic prospect enjoying loan spell with League Two leaders
Charlton Athletic sanctioned a season-long loan deal in the summer to send Daniel Kanu to Walsall to continue his development.
Charlton Athletic are in the midst of some worrying form despite a positive start to their first season back in the Championship. The Addicks have lost their last four games and have subsequently dropped to 17th in the table.
CAFC have struggled to score goals this term, and the summer signings of Isaac Olaofe and Charlie Kelman have not paid off yet. Nathan Jones’ side are the fourth-lowest scorers in the division and have only found the back of the net 18 times.
Image courtesy of: MATTHEW CHILDS/REUTERS.
The Addicks have scored just three times in their last five and have conceded 12. Relegation didn’t look like a possibility before last month, but if they don’t turn around their form, Jones’ side could have a long campaign ahead. It could force the CAFC head coach to consider options like recalling Daniel Kanu, who was sent out on loan to continue his development.
Charlton Athletic agreed to send the 21-year-old to Walsall for the season. Kanu played 17 times under Jones last term and featured a fair amount during the South London outfit’s tenure in League One.
Daniel Kanu’s stats for Charlton Athletic
How is Daniel Kanu faring at Walsall?
Kanu is in the second loan spell of his career after playing six games for Southend United during the 2023/24 season. The striker did score four goals during his short stint for the Shrimpers.
His time at Walsall seems to be going to plan so far, with the 21-year-old playing a huge role in the Saddlers’ success in League Two. The Sierra Leonean has appeared 16 times this term, scoring eight goals and providing one assist.
The frontman has scored four in his last five games and is in great form heading into a busy festive period. According to FotMob, Kanu is averaging almost two shots on target per game and is expected to score a goal every other match. His performances definitely question whether he is capable of playing a level higher.
Walsall currently sit top of League Two and look likely to finish in the top three this campaign. If the 21-year-old remains for the full term, the Saddlers look destined for promotion.
Image courtesy of: MATTHEW CHILDS/REUTERS.
Is there a future for Daniel Kanu at Charlton Athletic?
Charlton Athletic have a host of exciting talents coming through the ranks that could play vital roles in the future. Micah Mbick is another striker enjoying his time away from CAFC this season.
Kanu’s contract at the Valley runs until the summer of 2027, so he still has time to make his case to be the Addicks’ main frontman. With the current scoring problems for Jones, the 21-year-old could get his opportunity.
The Sierra Leonean must continue his development for the campaign at Walsall. CAFC should have enough to stay in the second tier this season, so Jones should let the youngster carry on playing in League Two.
