Paul Trollope is challenging his Bristol Rovers side to prove they can mix it with the League One promotion-chasers at Charlton Athletic tonight.

The Pirates have emerged empty-handed – and suffered some painful defeats – against the top sides in the division in recent weeks.

They include a 5-1 mauling at Norwich, a 4-0 home drubbing by Leeds and a 2-1 reverse at MK Dons during a recent run of six consecutive defeats.

But the manager hopes his side, who have since won back-to-back home games, will have learned lessons from their losing run that will serve them well at The Valley.

"We've disappointed in recent weeks against a few of the top teams, so it's time to put that right," said Trollope.

"We appreciate the challenge that lies ahead of us. Charlton are second in the table for a reason and their home record is very good.

"The size of the club and the squad they have got means it's a tough test, but we'll be ready for it. The one thing we have to do is go there with lots of energy, because that's something we are going to need in abundance.

"I think we have learned lessons from playing against the top teams in the last six or seven weeks and we will go there the better for it. Hopefully we can put those into practice." Wins over Carlisle and Gillingham in their last two matches have pointed to a possible revival and Trollope is keen for his side to keep that going in the capital.

"We've been pleased to come out of the last two games with six points, which is what we thought we could get – although we had to work hard," said Trollope.

"There have been improvements in a few areas – although there are still some to go – but we are very much looking forward to our trip to The Valley.

"There was a real solid look to our defensive unit on Saturday and a desire to defend throughout the team, which is crucial to being successful."

Bristol Rovers have options at the back tonight with right-back Carl Regan available after serving a one-match ban. Loan signing Pat Baldwin filled the role to good effect against the Gills, although Trollope recognises the Colchester player is primarily a central defender.

"Carl is available again and that will give us more options across the back-line," said Trollope.

"We are going to assess Danny Coles closely. Although there is no problem with his knee, this would be his third game in 10 days.

"We saw by Pat's performance on Saturday that he can do a job at right-back, although he's first and foremost a centre-half. But you will have to wait until we name the team on Tuesday night to see where he plays."

Bristol Rovers are without on-loan striker Chris Dickson, who is not allowed to play against his parent club, and Trollope has to decide whether to partner Darryl Duffy alongside Jo Kuffour or opt for a five-man midfield with Kuffour as a lone forward.

"It may mean one or two opportunities for other players," said Trollope.

"Darryl has come on and made a decent impact in the last few games and scored against Southampton. He's looked sharp in training but has had to wait patiently for his chance.

"When Rickie Lambert first left he formed a good partnership with Jo, so we are looking at a few options. We could partner them together or we could play five in midfield – I'm not going to give too much away."

Sean Rigg is added to the travelling squad after the end of his loan spell at Forest Green, but he could be on his way to another club before Thursday's loan deadline.

"There are a few clubs interested in him from a higher level than Forest Green and we are speaking to them to try and sort out his future. We want something that's right for him and for the club," said Trollope.