Jordan Ayew scores first Sheffield United goal in defeat to Charlton Athletic

Jordan Ayew scores first Sheffield United goal in defeat to Charlton Athletic

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew scored his first goal for Sheffield United, but it wasn't enough to prevent a 2-1 Championship defeat to Charlton Athletic on Saturday.

Ayew headed home United's equaliser after Millenic Alli had given Charlton an early lead at The Valley in the 12th minute.

However, Matty Godden struck with 11 minutes remaining to restore Charlton's advantage before the hosts secured the victory, ending an 11-game winless run in the league.

Godden's late strike was his second goal of the season and handed the Addicks their first league victory since August 29. The result lifted them to 19th place, seven points clear of the relegation zone.

For Sheffield United, the defeat ended a four-match unbeaten run and dealt a setback to their hopes of climbing the Championship table.

Ayew was recalled to the starting line-up after the midweek victory over Preston North End, alongside Liam Kitching and Kalvin Phillips. Mark McGuinness, Jairo Riedewald and Tom Cannon dropped to the bench.

The Ghana international will take encouragement from opening his scoring account for the Blades, although the result leaves his side with more work to do as they seek consistency in the Championship.