Charlton have been rocked by the news that striker Andy Hunt has retired on medical advice.
The former Newcastle and West Brom forward, 30, was the First Division's top scorer last season with 24 goals as the Addicks romped to the title and promotion to the Premiership.
He started this campaign in fine fettle with four goals in eight top-flight appearances for ninth-placed Charlton and was just beginning to form a good understanding with Jonatan Johansson up front when he was laid low by a mystery illness.
It was diagnosed as post-viral fatigue syndrome and cut his season short in September, despite attempts to return after Christmas.
Hunt told the club's website: "I have tried on four separate occasions to make a comeback, but I have suffered a bad reaction, both to matches and to training.
"So, following discussions with the medical specialists, I have reluctantly decided to retire.
"After being the club's top goalscorer last season, I was looking forward to establishing myself in the Premiership and I am devastated that I will not be able to play a part in Charlton's future success." PA