Say what you want, there’s absolutely no doubting the fact when Brett Pitman hasn’t been available this season Pompey have missed him – he ‘should’ be among those potentially returning at Charlton on Saturday.
We had had a positive update previously from Kenny Jackett – who has been confirmed as a Manager of the Month nomination for November – on Pitman’s condition, he, along with Ben Close, Dion Donohue, Oli Hawkins and Kal Naismith could well return as the Blues return to League One action at the Valley, having all missed the Checkatrade win over Northampton, in some cases games before that too.
Jackett told the News he would ‘see how the week develops’ but does feel ‘Pitman, Hawkins, Donohue, Naismith and Close all battling to try to play against Charlton.’
Should they miss this weekend he would be ‘hopeful for the following weekend.’
Admittedly, the boss said ‘Brett is ahead of the others’ yet he was remaining ‘open minded about their availability.’ However, the suggestion is a decision would be made sooner rather than later.
Like I said, Pitman has been a big miss when he’s not involved. We’re NOT a one man team but his influence has been incredible this season – on the goalscoring front and his all-round contribution to the team – and his absence has left big boots to fill.
In fairness I thought Naismith has filled in well, especially against Plymouth, so hopefully he’ll be fit but if not then having the captain back will suffice – Hawkins’ return could also be a pretty big boost given his recent impact.
PLAY UP POMPEY
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2017-18 Prediction League – December
Charlton (a) Saturday 9th December – click here.
Bury (h) Saturday 16th December 2017 – click here.
Shrewsbury (a) Saturday 23rd December 2017 – click here.
Wimbledon (h) Tuesday 26th December 2017 – click here.
Northampton (h) Saturday 30th December 2017 – click here.
