Norwich missing several first team players for FA Cup clash

Posted Friday, January 04, 2019 by PA

Sky Bet Championship promotion-hopefuls Norwich look set to be without several first-team regulars for the FA Cup third-round tie against League One leaders Portsmouth.

Midfielders Marco Stiepermann (quad) and Alex Tettey (abductor muscle) were both forced off during the 1-1 draw at Brentford on New Year’s Day, so are not expected to feature.

Defender Jamal Lewis (hamstring) continues his recovery, along with midfielders Moritz Leitner and Emi Buendia (both ankle).

Louis Thompson (shoulder), Kenny McLean (ankle) and striker Carlton Morris (knee) are all working their way back to full fitness, while winger Matt Jarvis has joined Walsall on loan as he looks to return from a long injury lay-off.

Portsmouth head to Norfolk without midfielder Ben Close, who is set for a couple of weeks recovery from an ankle problem.

New Pompey signing Andy Cannon is cup-tied having played for Rochdale against his new club earlier in this season’s competition.

Defenders Lee Brown and Nathan Thompson continue their rehabilitation from respective hamstring problems.

Forward Joe Mason has returned to Wolves following the end of his loan spell.