Old news but then I’ve got a lot of catching up to do after a few days absence – so in case you missed it, Portsmouth’s Niko Kranjcar will be sidelined for the rest of the season.
Kranjcar suffered an ankle injury against Bolton last weekend and although early noises from Portsmouth were encouraging, the club have now confirmed that the Croat has suffered bone related damage.
The absence of Kranjcar appears to have opened the way for Belhadj to stake a claim for a regular start. He has been restored to the team-sheet in the last two games and with Pompey’s recent defensive resolve, could offer some value. Portsmouth have earned 3 clean sheets in their last 5 games and with Belhadj classed as a defender, he offers potential returns at both ends for those willing to take a punt. Belhadj had three attempts on the Newcastle goal last night.
The home game with Arsenal this weekend looks an un-wise starting point, after that however, Portsmouth’s fixtures provide potential for more defensive returns (bal SUN wig).