CHARLTON’S attempts to pull out of their end-of-season nosedive have been hit by the loss of key defender Hermann Hreidarsson.

The Iceland international will miss the rest of the season after straining knee ligaments four minutes from the end of the goalless draw at Aston Villa.

Assistant manager Keith Peacock confirmed the worst when he said: "Hermann will miss the rest of the season, which is a big blow. He is a player who epitomises Charlton’s fighting spirit because he wears his heart on his sleeve. He will be greatly missed."

Hreidarsson’s absence in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Norwich put paid to his ever-present record in the side this season.

Luke Young, who admirably deputised at Carrow Road, looks certain to continue at left-back against third-placed Manchester United at The Valley on Sunday. Alternatively, Paul Konchesky, free from a two-match suspension, could play there.

Meanwhile, Francis Jeffers has cast fresh doubts over his Charlton future by declaring that this season has been the most disappointing of his career after being linked with a move back to Merseyside with Tranmere.

The 24-year-old former Everton striker, who has made seven starts, said: "I thought I would come to Charlton and be given the chance to prove what I’m capable of.

"I don’t think this has happened and it has been the most disappointing of my career."