Charlton boss Alan Curbishley has revealed his uncertainty over the long-term future of on-loan Chelsea striker Carlton Cole.
Cole is keen to return to Stamford Bridge, but Curbishley hopes to keep the 20-year-old beyond next season.
Curbishley said: "Carlton played very well for us last year. But he has to have a big say in what happens next.
"It's all a bit clouded at the moment, and I haven't spoken to him yet as he has been away on holiday."
Cole, who is on loan at the Valley until the end of the 2004/05 season, helped Charlton finish seventh in the Premiership last season.