[kennethlindheim]

Premiership strugglers Charlton face a tough third round FA Cup clash against League One high-flyers Nottingham Forest at The City Ground on Saturday.

Charlton's hopes of avoiding relegation from the top flight suffered a blow on Tuesday when they suffered a 4-0 defeat to Arsenal, leaving them six points adrift of safety.

They will, however, be boosted by the news that boss Alan Pardew was cleared of an improper conduct charge on Thursday by The Football Association, relating to his confrontation with Arsene Wenger, whilst he was West Ham manager, during the Premiership match with Arsenal at Upton Park on 5th November.

As well as missing leading scorer Darren Bent (knee), Charlton also have concerns over defender Hermann Hreidarsson, who has been hampered by a recent tendonitis problem.

The Addicks selection problems have been increased after Liverpool denied them permission to play on-loan goalkeeper Scott Carson, so Thomas Myhre will deputise.

Osei Sankofa will miss the tie following his sending off during the defeat at Arsenal and the club subsequently failed in their appeal against his suspension.

The full-back's ban - which has been extended to two matches after it was considered "frivolous" by The FA disciplinary commission - leaves Charlton short of cover at right-back, as skipper Luke Young remains sidelined.

Matt Holland, who has taken on the captain's role, could be asked to fill in.

Former Forest midfielder Andy Reid is unlikely to be in contention to face his old club because of a niggling hamstring problem, which has kept him out since December 16.

Forest boss Colin Calderwood is hoping that their season hit its lowest point on New Year's Day with the 5-0 defeat to Oldham.

Calderwood's men have taken just four points from their last five games which has seen them slip from top spot in the league to third.

Forest will be without Kris Commons (hamstring), John Thompson (cup-tied) and suspended duo Danny Cullip and Sammy Clingan for the fixture.

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