Dowie clings to hope over keeping Carson

Charlton manager Iain Dowie is hoping Liverpool opposite number Rafael Benitez does not activate the clause in Scott Carson's loan deal to take him back to Anfield in January.

Darren Bent's goal against Manchester City gave Dowie his second win of the season but it was on-loan England Under-21 keeper Carson who protected Charlton's lead with a stunning series of saves.

Dowie said: "We are just going to have to hope that a call from Rafa doesn't come. Scott has been absolutely superb and we are delighted Liverpool have given us the licence to take him, but it benefits both parties in that Scott is developing all the time, working and also learning from Premiership experience."

However, Dowie may rest Carson and Bent for tomorrow's Carling Cup ie at Chesterfield. Dennis Rommedahl is ruled out with a groin injury.