Fulham v Charlton

CHARLTON play the last of three successive Premier League away games at Fulham on Saturday knowing that victory could move the club closer to European football next season.

Chelsea’s victory in the Carling Cup final has freed up a UEFA Cup berth for the club finishing sixth in the Premier League. Another would become available if Middlesbrough or Newcastle win the UEFA Cup this year and fail to qualify for Europe by any other means.

With two Intertoto Cup spots reserved for English teams and the Fair Play award also up for grabs, 11 Premiership clubs could qualify for Europe next season.

The ninth-placed Addicks are determined to be a part of the final shake-down, though manager Alan Curbishley is presently focusing purely on upcoming games.

He said: "When you look at the calibre of the sides in the top 10, it’s a fantastic achievement for us to be in it. If we don’t tail away again, then a top 10 position will be a great finish for us.

"If we beat our points total of last year then we’ll see what happens. The three successive home games that follow Fulham are massively important."

Striker Kevin Lisbie remains out of contention as he is serving the last of a three-match ban following his dismissal in a reserve game.