ALAN CURBISHLEY has dismissed the notion that Charlton's place in next season's UEFA Cup is theirs to lose rather than gain.

Despite the crushing disappointment of the shock 4-1 home defeat by relegation candidates West Bromwich Albion, seventh-placed Addicks remain the pundits tip for an historic first excursion into European competition.

With four of their remaining eight games at home against Manchester City, Bolton, Manchester United and Crystal Palace, plus away games at Portsmouth, Norwich and Aston Villa, the club's fate lies in their own hands.

But as the manager talked up the club's prospects, he insisted the side still have it all to do if they are to fulfil their ambition.

Curbishley said: "I find it flattering that people see us as UEFA Cup qualifers. But it's not for us to lose because if you look at the run-in we've got to win it rather than lose it, if we're to play in Europe next season."

"We've two games near the end of the season against Manchester United and Chelsea, which is tough on anyone's agenda. What we face now is a run of games against Manchester City at home, Portsmouth away, Bolton at home Villa away and Norwich away.

"I always thought those games would sort us out. Though we lost to West Brom, I see no reason why we can't go and win the majority of the next five to stand any chance. So it's not for us to lose."