CHARLTON boss Alan Curbishley had no complaints after Jerome Thomas was subjected to Manchester United’s strong-arm tactics during the match at Old Trafford.

In fact, he believes the experience will benefit the youngster’s development as he seeks to establish himself in the side.

Thomas was eventually replaced by Paul Konchesky after 58 minutes after enduring a fruitless afternoon and finding himself on the floor several times.

Curbishley admitted: "Jerome was sorted out by the United defence as they worked hard to get the ball back.

"To be fair, he has had a difficult week because he missed a couple of days’ training with a knock. And when he went to take players on early in the game, he suffered another knock.

"The tackles that were put in on him were no win situations for the defender. In other words he was going to get kicked.

"The thing about Jerome is that he doesn’t mind getting kicked, that’s why he’s been doing so well in recent weeks.