Sutton United midfielder Charlie Carter has been cleared to return for the club's National League trip to face Gateshead on Friday night. Manager Chris Agutter confirmed the news, reported by the club's official site, stating the 29-year-old will be involved after missing the opening weeks of the season.
Carter last featured in a pre-season draw with Walton & Hersham before a late withdrawal ahead of the win over Woking. He returned to full training last week and was an unused substitute in Saturday's 2-1 victory over Hartlepool United. His availability is a significant boost for a Sutton side that has won all four of its league matches so far this season. You can see the full squad list on our squad page.
Why is Charlie Carter so important to Sutton?
Agutter was effusive in his praise for the former Dorking Wanderers captain. "He's our talisman," the manager said. "He's our number ten, a match-winner in his own right. Unbelievable character, personality, a leader within the group, an exceptional footballer." The manager highlighted that Carter's return will address a perceived shortcoming in possession during the early games, despite the perfect start. Carter's work rate was also noted, with Agutter adding he "does the hard miles back towards his own goal."
Who else is in the Sutton United treatment room?
While Carter returns, Omar Mussa and Kwaku Donkor will miss the trip to the North-East. Both players are approximately a week away from returning to full training after picking up knocks against Leicester City and Woking respectively. Defender Toby Byron, who hasn't played since the final day of the 2025/26 season at Boreham Wood, is due back in full training soon after missing pre-season. The only other long-term absentee is Jordan Moore-Taylor, but Agutter reported positive steps in his recovery. "He's making really positive steps," Agutter said of Moore-Taylor, noting his continued influence around the training ground.
How does the squad look for the fixture run?
With Carter back and only a few players sidelined, Sutton's squad depth is improving ahead of a busy period. The team currently sits top of the National League with 12 points from four matches, a position you can track on our standings page. The immediate focus is the long trip to Gateshead, a team that finished 14th last season. Following that, Sutton's next home fixture is against Rochdale, as shown on the club's fixtures schedule. Agutter will have nearly a full squad to choose from as he looks to maintain the team's 100% record.
The return of a key creative player provides a timely lift. Sutton United's next match is away at Gateshead on Friday, August 28, with a 7:45pm kick-off.
