CHARLTON players will shun matchday autograph hunters after Jason Euell and his family were subjected to a torrent of abuse after the 2-1 home defeat by Middlesbrough on October 30.

Euell, his wife and young children, were sworn at by a man as they walked across the car park.

The player was shaken and deeply upset. The club immediately responded by introducing new match-day procedures designed to segregate players from supporters.

For Saturday's home game against Norwich, all players were instructed to park in the far right section outside the West Stand.

They were escorted inside by stewards who shadowed them when they left. They were urged not to sign autographs or pose for photographs.

Peter Varney, Charlton's chief executive, explained: "There was an unfortunate incident in the car park after the home game against Middlesbrough.

"With the security of the players of paramount importance, discussions with the police and safety officials prompted this action.

"I am sorry if these new arrangements affect those supporters genuinely seeking autographs, but I hope they will understand the responsibility the club has towards everyone's safety.

"It was unfortunate we lost our last two home games against Crystal Palace and Middlesbrough, but the reaction of a small minority at the Middlesbrough match was totally unacceptable."

He added: "Of course, fans have a right to voice their opinions, but when that descends into individuals directly targeting players, their families and staff with foul and abusive language, I do not see why any of us should have to tolerate that."

Manager Alan Curbishley was also singled out for abuse as he left the ground after the Middlesbrough match.

In a vigorous defence of the manager, Mr Varney said: "Since the Middlesbrough match there seems to have been a lot of negative publicity about the club, both in radio phone-ins and in the press.

"To put matters into perspective, our home record is better than 12 other Premiership clubs and we have a manager who has brought us unprecedented success in recent years.

"Everyone is disappointed with some of our performances this season, but everyone is working hard to improve matters because The Valley needs to generate a positive atmosphere on matchdays."

Meanwhile, Charlton will have striker Shaun Bartlett available after a one-match suspension for Saturday's match away to Manchester United.