Looking at the Charlton side this season, remind me of last yr's Everton.
They are playing very well as a unit. Cohesive, every one fighting for one another. And most importantly, the performance on the pitch is reflected in their results so far. And if they can carry on this run of results till dec, it will build a winning momentum and mentality within the players, and if they can stay injury free (esp to key players like Bent, Murphy, Rommendahl, Young, etc...) it would be no surprise to see them finishing in the top 4..
And top 4 meaning,
Chelsea
Man utd
Arsenal
Charlton
No liverpool.. sorry

They need to win the CL again in order to qualify for it next season

It has been proven.. Rafa benitez's tactics do not suit the EPL's fast pace and robust play. They will find it tough to grind out results against lesser but tough play teams, especially away games. Unlike Chelsea, United or gunners who can all do it more regularly and consistently than Pool.