CHARLTON boss Alan Curbishley took a rare swipe in public at his players after Saturday's 4-0 rout at home to Chelsea.

After taking a fourth minute lead through Damien Duff, the Barclays Premier League title favourites scored twice in three minutes just after half time through central defender John Terry before Eidur Gudjohnsen wrapped up the scoring in the 59th minute.

It was Charlton's second home defeat in the Premiership this season and Curbishley confessed that it hurt.

"At 4-0 the thought crossed my mind that it could turn into an absolute disaster. The goals conceded really disappointed me. The first was avoidable and then we let in two set-piece goals, which really isn't us. We've been really hurt by this defeat. Now we're starting a run of games which we've got to take points from."

Curbishley confirmed he had put the previously ever-present Hermann Hreidarsson on the bench after he sustained a back injury during training on Tuesday. He came on as a 63rd minute substitute and such was his impact that his manager was moved to admit: "What he did do - and I've told the rest of them - he showed more in 27 minutes than they showed in the rest of the game. He won more headers and tackles in 27 minutes than the rest of them put together."

Charlton play a south London derby away to Crystal Palace on Sunday. Kick off at Selhurst Park is 4.05pm.