Matheson and Norrington-Davies return for Rochdale

Posted Thursday, November 21, 2019 by PA

Rochdale should have Luke Matheson and Rhys Norrington-Davies back from international duty for the Sky Bet League One match against Portsmouth.

Defender Matheson has been away with England Under-18s, while Norrington-Davies, on loan from Sheffield United, was called up for Wales Under-21s.

Paul McShane marked his return to action in the FA Cup replay against Wrexham with the only goal of a 1-0 win, but the defender will be monitored after going off at half-time.

Midfielder Ollie Rathbone (foot) has not featured since the start of November as he continues to work on his fitness, along with defenders Tyler Magloire (groin) and Jimmy McNulty (back).

Portsmouth will be without Sean Raggett and Tom Naylor for the trip to Spotland.

Midfielder Naylor had been forced off after less than half an hour of the FA Cup win over Harrogate with a hamstring injury, so is set for a spell of treatment.

Defender Raggett, on loan from Norwich, picked up an adductor muscle problem, so Anton Walkes could again come in as cover.

Forward Ellis Harrison is expected to be available following a sore back, but on-loan Rangers midfielder Ross McCrorie (hamstring) faces around six weeks out and has returned to his parent club for more treatment.