Donohue absent again for Pompey but closing in on return

Posted Monday, December 10, 2018 by PA

Portsmouth midfielder Dion Donohue is closing in on a return to full fitness but the visit of Charlton comes too soon for him.

The 25-year-old has not played for the League One leaders since October due to a hamstring injury but he is set to feature for the reserves on Tuesday.

On-loan QPR winger David Wheeler also misses the Charlton clash as he continues his recovery from a back/hamstring problem.

Midfielder Tom Naylor will be hoping to retain his place in the starting line-up after returning for the victory over Southend, with Ben Close another option should Pompey boss Kenny Jackett want to freshen up the side.

Charlton left-back Toby Stevenson came into the side for Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Blackpool, but Addicks boss Lee Bowyer has revealed the 19-year-old is likely to be taken out of the front line against Pompey.

Naby Sarr could start in defence, but Charlton might again have to do without Jamie Ward as they aim to get back into the top six.

On-loan Nottingham Forest winger Ward, who had recently returned to action after a dead leg, missed the match against Blackpool.

Midfielder Darren Pratley has been out with a knee problem, while Jake Forster-Caskey, Josh Cullen, Igor Vetokele and defender Lewis Page are all long-term absentees.