Lee Bowyer says Darren Pratley will not be fit for Charlton’s League One opener against Sunderland on August 4.

The Addicks signed experienced midfielder Pratley, 33, on a two-year deal on Tuesday.

Valley caretaker boss Lee Bowyer said: “To be fair to the lad, he did a run that all the other lads have done and came second. So he’s still in good shape.

“It’s just the football, he’s going to be rusty with the ball. So he won’t be playing against Sunderland. He’s got to catch up and get himself ready.

“There’s no point chucking him in the deep end and getting him injured at Sunderland. He won’t start against Sunderland but we will try to get him as many minutes as possible [in pre-season].

“I want to chuck him in and amongst the lads as soon as possible. Saturday is probably too soon, he might get some minutes on Tuesday.

“He’s a man and has the experience - that’s why we've brought him in. He’s going to work hard, press and win the ball back for us. We want him ready.”