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Starlets eye first team breakthrough

BARRY FULLER: Has made the first team squad on three occasions
BARRY FULLER: Has made the first team squad on three occasions
LLOYD SAM: "I hope it will happen for me next season"
LLOYD SAM: "I hope it will happen for me next season"

CHARLTON fans may still be waiting with bated breath for the club to fulfil its promise of a host of new arrivals at The Valley this summer, but there are a couple of people who will not be quite so concerned that the Addicks are yet to add to the £3million capture of striker Darren Bent in early June.

Fledgling duo Lloyd Sam and Barry Fuller could be set for breakthrough campaigns in the coming season after emerging on the Premiership scene at the end of last term.

And having had first-hand experience of the difficulty young players face to make an impact at an established Premiership club, it is likely that the hitherto lack of transfer activity will not come as too much of a disappointment to two players eager to get another chance in the first team in 2005/06.

Durable midfielder Fuller, 20, didn’t actually experience Premiership football last year, but the reserve-team skipper made Alan Curbishley’s final 16 on three occasions against Bolton Wanderers, Aston Villa and Chelsea during April and May.

"I feel it was a reward for all of the hard work I put in," said Ashford-born Fuller, who was initially recommended to the club via the Charlton community scheme coaches.

"It was a great season for me and hopefully I can make a real breakthrough in the coming season."

Wing wizard Sam, also 20, made a long-awaited senior debut against Crystal Palace on the final day of the season, coming on for the final 14 minutes of the 2-2 draw that condemned the Eagles to relegation.

"It was a great experience for me but I want more now," said Sam.

"I didn’t feel many nerves and felt as though I can perform at that level. I hope it will happen for me next season."

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