CHARLTON defender Ben Thatcher's slow recovery from a thigh injury is giving cause for concern as manager Alan Pardew conceded he might not play again until after next month’s international break.

The Charlton left-back picked up the injury in the 3-2 home win against Sheffield Wednesday on August 25.

Pardew had hoped to have Thatcher available for Saturday’s trip to Wolves but admitted this week: “I doubt whether we’ll have Ben back until after the next international break.

“Though he’s having regular physiotherapy, the injury is taking longer to clear up than we first thought. The injury continues to nag him and so we’re not going to risk it.”

Chris Powell, who has replaced Thatcher for the last seven games, will continue his extended run in the side.